Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Jun 2001

Vol. 539 No. 2

Written Answers. - Middle East Peace Process.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

67 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the Middle East is sliding towards war; and if there are any steps which can be taken at this stage through the European Union or the UN to contribute towards a peaceful resolution. [19344/01]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

The situation in the Middle East is cause for great concern. The risk of escalation of the conflict exists. However, I do not believe that it is at present sliding towards war and the countries directly concerned are well aware that they must avert this risk. Similarly, the international community is conscious that it should do all it can to assist the countries of the region to ensure that peace rests on a solid foundation. A number of steps have been taken toward the resumption of peace negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians.

Following declaration of ceasefires by both Israel and the Palestinian Authority, the sides reached agreement on 13 June on a package of measures to renew security co-operation brokered by the Director of the CIA, George Tenet. While there are major difficulties, the Tenet agreement offers some hope of moving out of what had become an increasingly intractable and unsustainable situation. The agreement concentrates on security matters and does not seek to resolve the broader political issues, which cannot be kept separate from security concerns for long. The sides now need to move beyond the cease-fire to begin implementing the entire package of political measures as outlined in the Mitchell report. The cease-fire may not hold unless there is rapid movement on easing closures of Palestinian towns and withdrawal of forces as well as a freeze on all settlement activity. Similarly the Palestinian Authority must do all in its power to combat terrorism and end incitement.

The EU and the UN have a vital part to play in supporting the peace process. High Representative Javier Solana presented a report on the role of the EU in the implementation of the Mitchell plan at the European Council in Gothenburg on 15 and 16 June. The European Council welcomed the report and shared Solana's views that rebuilding confidence needs urgent improvement of the situation on the ground, rebuilding faith in peace needs our support for the restoration of co-operation between civil societies and aid to the Palestinian institutions and economy remains a European commitment that should be maintained as part of an international effort.

High Representative Solana met with President Arafat and Prime Minister Sharon on 22 June to discuss how the EU might contribute to the resumption of peace negotiations. UN Secretary General Annan also travelled to the Middle East on 12 to 18 June on a visit aimed at pressing the Palestinians and Israelis to implement the Mitchell recommendations. The Security Council will consider what useful contribution it can make in the light of developments on the ground.