The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, has announced her intention to visit Gaza in the next ten days. Her visit will precede a tour of the sector by European Ministers scheduled to take place before the end of this month.

In a press statement from Ashton, she confirmed that during her visit she would be observing the situation in the Gaza, particularly in the wake of recent developments and stressed the necessity that Israel’s ‘easing’ of the blockade should include the entry of all materials necessary for the reconstruction of Gaza.

Ashton, who will be visiting Gaza for the second time in four months, clarified that the European Union would be discussing and closely examining details related to the lists published by Israel. She stressed the importance of granting every facility to allow for the reconstruction of Gaza’s buildings, the revitalization of its private sector and the development of economic activities that would bring life back to the Strip.

She demanded that the movement of people and goods between the West Bank and Gaza Strip be eased explaining that it remained one of the main and most important keys to an improvement of the situation. Similarly, the people of Gaza should be assisted in the rebuilding of their homes and schools, the development of their infrastructure and the launching of new projects. Work and activities at border crossings must also be expanded.

Ashton indicated that the European Union is prepared to support efforts to reopen land crossings and stated that it would continue to follow up on the details of current changes and their implementation.

Source: Palestinians Information Centre