Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The speech of Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, before the leaders and heads of delegations participating in the Arab Summit held Tuesday in Cairo, came to confirm the steadfastness of the European position regarding the situation in the Middle East region. He also announced the support of the unified European bloc for the Egyptian-Arab plan adopted by the summit. The European Union institutions in Brussels published the text of the speech delivered by Costa during the summit, which he said was important and came at a time when the international community and Arab countries are trying to give hope to millions of Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank and abroad. And to end the terrible suffering that we have all witnessed during the past year and a half. “The European Union is fully committed to contributing to peace in the Middle East. Committed to a two-state solution, where Palestine and Israel can live side by side in peace and security. Free from the threat of terrorism. Committed to supporting the efforts of the Arab states and the Palestinian Authority, as we have done for a long time.

Respect for the UN Charter, the rules-based international order and international law has never been more at stake than it is at the moment. Let me be clear. The EU firmly rejects any attempt at demographic or territorial changes. In Gaza. In other parts of the world. Anywhere. In line with the UN Charter, international law, our fundamental principles and relevant UN resolutions.

The EU calls on all parties to the ceasefire and hostage release agreement to fully implement their commitments. We commend all parties involved in the mediation efforts, in particular Egypt and Qatar. We sincerely hope that the talks on phase two will be successful.

This is extremely important. Not only to allow for the release of all hostages and detainees, but also to ensure a path to a lasting end to hostilities. A political solution that includes Gaza and the West Bank. And a path that respects international law and humanitarian law, for humanitarian access to the Palestinians, and for the protection of civilians.
The European Union and its Member States support these objectives. By increasing humanitarian assistance, in particular by continuing to support the work of UNRWA. And by deploying the European Union Mission in Rafah (EUBAM), at the Rafah crossing.
Our support to the Palestinian Authority is also steadfast. The European Union supports the Palestinian Authority’s reform agenda. It will play a crucial role in governing Gaza.
The European Union is also using all possible tools in this regard, including diplomatic efforts towards Israel and Palestine. And also through the Global Coalition for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
The European Union is fully committed, with you and all other international partners, to the reconstruction of Gaza. Any viable reconstruction plan must cover all aspects, especially reconstruction, governance and security.
Thanks to Egypt and all those who worked on the plan presented today. The European Union stands ready to provide concrete support. Together, we must implement this plan. Together, the European Union, its partners in the Arab world and the international community.
It is in difficult times that you can count on predictable and reliable partners and friends. Recent developments in the Middle East have made the Arab League and its members even more important for the European Union. We are partners in working to resolve tensions, address challenges in the region and rebuild Gaza. May the holy month of Ramadan bring the peace we are all looking for. To the Middle East and elsewhere in the world. Ramadan Kareem!