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Middle East Peace Process.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 February 2005

Wednesday, 2 February 2005

Questions (133, 134)

Liam Twomey

Question:

180 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action being taken by the Government and the European Union to progress the Middle East peace process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2634/05]

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Written answers

The Government stands ready, in concert with our EU partners, to assist the parties to the conflict in their efforts to move forward on the basis of the road map. Ireland, through its membership of the European Union and its relations with Palestine, Israel, the United States, Arab and other key partners, will strongly support early action, led by the quartet, to advance the implementation of the road map.

The General Affairs and External Relations Council in Brussels on Monday reaffirmed the EU's commitment to support the efforts of both parties to re-launch political contacts at all levels. Developments in recent days on this track have been encouraging and we look forward to a constructive outcome from the meeting which is scheduled to take place between President Abbas and Prime Minister Sharon on 8 February. I intend to visit the Middle East region in the coming weeks when I hope to meet with President Abbas.

Question No. 181 answered with QuestionNo. 159.
Question No. 182 answered with QuestionNo. 168.
Question No. 183 answered with QuestionNo. 92.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

184 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the meetings he envisages taking place at Irish or European Union level as would advance the road map for peace in the Middle East; if he proposes to meet the new President of the Palestinian Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2763/05]

View answer

The European Union will meet with the US President on 22 February. This meeting will provide an excellent opportunity for the EU and US to consider how best to support further progress in the implementation of the quartet road map. I also note the intention of the United Kingdom to host a conference in London on 1 March which will focus on means by which the international community can support the Palestinian Authority in its continuing efforts to meet its obligations under the road map. I intend to travel to the region in the near future, at which time I hope to have the opportunity to meet with President Abbas and other key players in the peace process.

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