The European Union has constantly played a very active role in supporting efforts to bring about a comprehensive and lasting settlement in the Middle East. In particular, the EU strongly encourages the various initiatives to end the current violence and urges the parties to pursue the path of negotiation and to make the necessary compromises to resolve outstanding problems. The active part taken by High Representative, Javier Solana, and Special Envoy, Miguel Moratinos, in their contacts with all the major participants demonstrates the EU's commitment to assist in mediation efforts to resolve the conflict. The EU Presidency, with Solana and Moratinos, was in continuous contact with the parties over the weekend on possible follow-up to the Taba talks.