asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline the response the Twelve members of the European Community have given to the Central American peace plan known as Esquipulus II.
Written Answers. - Central American Peace Plan.
33.
The Twelve have issued two statements expressing support for the Guatemala, or Esquipulas II, Agreement.
On 13 August they expressed their great satisfaction that the five Central American Presidents had reached agreement on a plan for peace and democracy in that region, their belief that this development constituted a very important step toward establishment of a climate of mutual trust and their full support for the efforts of the Central American States. The Twelve also urged those States as well as others with links and interests in the region to co-operate constructively in translating the agreement reached into lasting peace and true democracy in Central America.
On 23 November the Foreign Ministers of the Twelve stated that they welcomed and had been encouraged by the measures already taken in fulfilment of the agreement; urged the Central American States to pursue their efforts to carry the peace process forward and called on all the parties in the region to contribute positively to the fulfilment of the aspirations of the Central American peoples for peace, democracy, independence, self-determination, social and economic development and respect for human rights. They condemned all acts of violence. The Twelve again urged the international community and, in particular, those countries with links to and interests in Central America to contribute to the region's efforts. "They hope that their next meeting with the countries of Central America and the Contadora Group, scheduled to take place in Hamburg in February 1988, will take place against the background of peace and democracy in Central America. This will allow the dialogue to better address the urgently needed economic development of Central America".