Michael Creed
Question:29 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps, if any, the Government has taken at EU level to advance the Israeli and Palestinian peace process. [22371/97]
Written Answers. - Middle East Peace Process.
The Government views the current impasse in the Middle East peace process with great concern.
The Middle East peace process continues to occupy a high priority for the Union. It is regularly considered in the General Affairs Council, and by the various working groups which meet in Brussels. The President of the Council of Ministers, Mr. Jacques Poos, Foreign Minister of Luxembourg, recently carried out visits to the Middle East on behalf of the Union, in the course of which he visited Egypt, Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. He underlined the role of the EU in the peace process, the considerable financial support provided by the Union and its willingness to be at the disposal of the regional parties in the role of facilitator. The EU role continues to be that of offering constructive support to the parties in order to restart substantive talks.
Foreign Minister Poos also discussed the situation with the US Secretary of State, Mrs. Albright, on 4 December. They agreed on the need for continued EU-US co-operation in this area.
Ireland has taken an active role in EU discussions on this issue at both ministerial and official level and fully supports the EU Presidency in its endeavours. We will also continue, through our own bilateral contacts, to support the efforts to advance the peace process.