The European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (EUHR), Catherine ASHTON, visited EUPOL COPPS’ HQ on Thursday 18 March, in Ramallah. The EUHR met with EUPOL COPPS’ Head of Mission, Commissioner Henrik MALMQUIST, and with EUBAM RAFAH’s Head of Mission, Colonel Alain FAUGERAS.
In reference to the Common Security and Defence (CSDP) Missions in the area, EUPOL COPPS and EUBAM RAFAH, the High Representative underlined that “our ambition remains the same. Having talked to Israeli politicians and the Palestinian Authority, and having been to Gaza today, I think this situation can not go on. It needs to move and there is a great willingness for progress. The challenge is for all of us”.
Acknowledging the achievements of both Missions so far, she added that “the work you are doing in terms of contributing to building Palestinian institutional capacity is very significant”.
With this meeting, the High Representative concluded her first visit to Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Nevertheless, she announced that she will be returning to the region soon, and that she will report to the oncoming Quartet’s meeting in Moscow, where she will represent the European Union.
