Following intense and difficult negotiations among political groups, the Socialists and Democrats express their satisfaction for the European Parliament´s endorsement for the ‘Recommendations on relations with the Palestinian Authority’.
The Standing Rapporteur for Palestine and S&D member, Evin Incir, said:
"If our goal is ensuring peace and security in the Middle East, if our aspiration is reaching the internationally recognised Two-state solution according to pre-1967 borders with Jerusalem as capital of both Israeli and Palestinian states, if our duty is defending human rights, freedom and democracy everywhere, then why has this resolution been considered as controversial by the EPP, the extreme-right in the European Parliament, and beyond?
“How controversial can it be to demand: an end to corruption and human rights abuses by the Palestinian Authority; an end to terrorist attacks by actors on the Palestinian and Israeli side; an end to Israeli occupation and human rights abuses; the Israeli authorities to stop the demolition and confiscation of EU-funded projects that is supposed to go to schools for Palestinian children?
“The answer is simple: It´s not controversial, it is the right thing to do! Unless, of course, someone believes that international law and human rights only applies to certain countries and people. Turning the occupation into a de facto annexation is not only illegal but also unacceptable.
"We believe that these recommendations to the EU Council, the Commission, and High Representative, Josep Borrell, come at an extraordinarily crucial time to make Europe´s voice heard. We are very satisfied that the European Parliament voted in favour of a constructive tool for all actors working for peace and for a long-lasting Two-state solution.
"People are suffering in Palestine and Israel, and it is our responsibility – the EU´s duty – to pave the way for peace."
