A new five-year action plan that sets the objectives of bilateral relations between the European Union and the Palestinian Authority was finalized Oct. 24.
“The EU reiterates its commitment to the institution and state-building objectives of the Palestinian Authority and to further deepen bilateral relations with the future state of Palestine,” Catherine Ashton, high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the commission, said in a ceremony marking the end of negotiations. The action plan, Ashton said, marks “a new phase” in the European Union’s bilateral relationship with the Palestinian Authority.
Among the priority objectives set out in the action plan are to:
Strengthen bilateral relations.
Work toward a Palestinian state grounded on rule of law, respect for human rights and democratic, accountable institutions.
Guarantee sustainable finances for the Palestinian Authority and economic development for the Palestinian territories.
Support the rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem.
Advocate inclusive development.
In addition to the objectives, the action plan laid out a framework for an EU-PA work program across a variety of sectors, including justice, home affairs, economy, trade, energy, water and transport.
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