Madam President, as Mr Patten has just said, debates on the critical situation in the Middle East are becoming a regular feature of Parliament’s sittings. This is all the more distressing if we think back to the discussions we held a few short months ago. Then, as you have just reminded us, we were considering the content of various draft proposals which seemed to be bringing the prospect of permanent peace in the region closer. Nowadays the agenda seems to be set by the most extremist elements on both sides. A permanent vicious circle of violence has been created. I certainly do not wish to name names or apportion blame, but the fact is that rightly or wrongly, the feeling of insecurity in Israel is stronger than ever. At the same time the belief is gaining ground that the Palestinian National Authority does not wish to act in a serious and determined manner to bring an end to the conflict, or is simply not in a position to do so. In the meantime, the rapid deterioration in living conditions in the Palestinian Territories is a cause for great concern. It creates fertile ground for the growth of the most radical sectors. Faced with this turn of events, the Palestinian National Authority appears to be losing its grip on the situation. At the same time, the population’s support for the Intifada and indeed for terrorist action against Israel is growing. This should be categorically condemned and decisive action taken against it. President Arafat neglected to do so as recently as yesterday evening in his televised address. In general, the Arab countries are becoming ever more demoralised and positions are hardening. Consequently, appeals have been made from the area to the international community and in particular to the European Union, requesting greater involvement in the peace process. However, we need to establish whether the parties to the conflict are genuinely interested in returning to the negotiating table or whether anyone still believes in a military solution to the problem. We have been pleased to welcome a delegation from the Israeli Parliament to the House today. I should like to assure them that the institutions of the European Union are more committed than ever to offering even-handed support, if both parties wish it, in order to rebuild the necessary confidence to allow peace negotiations to resume. I am sure members of that delegation have felt this for themselves. Unquestionably, the European Union has already made a significant effort to offer economic support, in line with its global political vision for the region. Our political involvement is increasing as we hone the Union’s foreign policy instruments. However, we still have a long way to go. Nonetheless, neither the Community nor anyone else can replace the will of the parties concerned to negotiate. We firmly believe that if the aim is to achieve genuine security and well being in the area, peaceful and negotiated settlements must be reconsidered. Confrontation has to cease, and all parties must work together again, striving for peaceful coexistence and cooperation. It is my heartfelt desire that this should come about at the earliest opportunity.

Political group: PPE-DE