I wonder what Palestinians could possibly do to not deserve a state according to the EU? Certainly the atrocities and attempted genocide of Jews in the Middle East seems to be considered praiseworthy and deserving reward. - EoZ
EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS - The European Union is set to produce a plan to ensure the viability of a Palestinian state, based on 1967 borders, it has emerged.
In a bid to step up the EU's engagement in the region, the plan is set to focus on reconstruction as well as ensuring security is brought to the territories.
It will also set out the need for holding free and fair elections.
Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos, who is a former EU envoy to the Middle East, said that it is hoped the plan would be adopted in November at a meeting of EU leaders in Brussels, according to reports.
The move follows deep unease in Europe over the lack of progress in implementing the EU, US, UN and Russian backed ‘Road Map’ for peace and a response to Israel's plans to withdraw from Gaza.
"We want to show the will to start moving and commit ourselves to the situation in the Middle East", Mr Moratinos told a press conference.
Diplomats insist that the Road Map is still on the table, but little progress has been made ahead of the US presidential elections.
EU diplomats also insist that the move does not represent the EU stepping away from the Quartet and is compatible with the Road Map.
However, with a vote on prime minister Ariel Sharon's plans to withdraw from Gaza in 2005 set to come before the Knesset in two weeks time, the EU is keen to make sure no power vacuum ensues
