The European Union again calls for the urgent resumption of negotiations

Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU on Israeli decision
regarding settlements
18 December 2009
www.se2009.eu/en/meetings_news/2009/12/18/declaration_by_the_presidency_on_behalf_of_the_eu_on_israeli_decision_regarding_settlements

The European Union expresses its disapproval of the decision of the
Government of Israel on 13 December to include settlements in the National
Priority Areas program. The decision runs counter to the spirit of the
settlement freeze, of which Ministers have taken positive note, as a first
step in the right direction, in the recent conclusions of the Foreign
Affairs Council. It also prevents the creation of an atmosphere conducive to
resuming negotiations on a two-state solution. The European Union encourages
Israel instead to continue along the path set forth by the moratorium.

The European Union reiterates that settlements on occupied land are illegal
under international law. The European Union urges the Government of Israel
to immediately end all settlement activities.

The European Union again calls for the urgent resumption of negotiations
that will lead, within an agreed time-frame, to a two-state solution with
the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable
State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security.