Special Session
Geneva
6 July, 2006

Mr. President,



I am speaking on behalf of the European Union members of the Council and acceding country Romania with regard to the draft resolution entitled "Human rights situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory".

The European Union have raised some concerns with the sponsors of this initiative and regret that a constructive dialogue on the text, which could have lead to consensus, could not take place. In particular, the European Union proposed that the text should address the situation in a more balanced manner by reflecting all relevant aspects of the current crisis. Inter alia, we would have wanted it to call for the immediate and unconditional release of the kidnapped Israeli soldier; to condemn the murder of the Israeli victim of a kidnapping in the West Bank; and to call on the Palestinian leadership to bring an end to violence and terrorist activities, including the firing of rockets on Israeli territory. But it does not.

For this reason The European Union members of the Council and Romania are not able to support the draft resolution as amended and will vote against the proposed text.

Mr. President,

Let me reiterate in this connection, that the European Union has repeatedly expressed its concern about the situation which has evolved over the last week between Israel and the Palestinians and calls on all parties to abstain from any actions that violate international humanitarian and human rights law. The European Union has reminded all parties of their responsibility to protect civilian lives.

The European Union has also emphasised the primacy of diplomatic means and calls upon all parties in the region to make every effort possible to resolve the current situation by peaceful means. We reaffirm our conviction that only a negotiated two-State solution can bring peace and security to the Israeli and the Palestinian people.

Thank you, Mr. President.

ihmisoikeudet