EU ready to help in Gaza

In a press statement issued last week, the European Commission welcomed the progress made last Wednesday in talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority on arrangements for movement of people and goods in Southern Gaza.

The Commission said that it is ready to play its part to respond to the request from both parties that the EU should provide a third party presence at the Palestinian border with Egypt to facilitate the early reopening of the Rafah crossing point.

Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, said: "In the coming days, I will be sending senior officials to the region to work together with the Council on exploring options for the EU to contribute to the reopening and efficient management of the border.

"This mission can play an important part in rebuilding confidence between the parties, and helping to kick-start the Palestinian economy in Gaza."

Ms Ferrero-Waldner added: "The Commission already provides extensive support to the Palestinian Authority to build a modern and effective customs administration, and we have recently given a positive response to a Palestinian request to intensify this work.

"I look forward to discussing this matter in more detail with my colleagues in the council, and with the two parties when I visit the region next week".