AHLC meeting in Madrid

The Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that the Palestinian economy is stronger than it has been in a long time. This is reducing the Palestinians’ aid dependency.

The Ad Hoc Liaison Committee for Assistance to the Palestinians (AHLC) met in Madrid today under the chairmanship of Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos hosted the meeting, which was also attended by Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad and Quartet Representative Tony Blair.

“The Middle East Quartet’s reiteration of its support for Prime Minister Fayyad’s state-building plan during its meeting in Moscow on 19 March confirms that there is broad international support for the plan. The AHLC meeting confirms the donors’ willingness to support the detailed implementation of the plan,” said Foreign Minister Støre.

The Fayyad Government has come a long way in its efforts, with international support. Further progress is dependent on stronger support from the Palestinian private sector.

“In order to strengthen Palestinian economic growth, Israel must take significant steps to ease the closure regime in the occupied territory. The aim is an independent Palestinian state that is not dependent on international aid,” said Mr Støre.

Foreign Minister Støre also emphasised that the challenges in East Jerusalem and Gaza are threatening to undermine the international efforts.

“East Jerusalem must resume its traditional role as a key engine of the Palestinian economy, just as Gaza’s borders must be opened to allow normal economic activity and access to the outside world, so that Gaza can find its rightful place in a Palestinian state,” said the Foreign Minister.