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EU Vows to Lift Gaza Closure, Boost Palestinian Economy

The European Union has pledged to advocate for the complete and permanent removal of obstacles to movement and access in the West Bank and Gaza Strip as a pre-requisite for Palestinian economic revival.

Enhancing Economic Cooperation

According to a recently released document, the EU will work towards developing trade relations with Palestine and implementing concrete measures to facilitate the full implementation of the Interim Association Agreement on Trade and Cooperation. This agreement aims to enhance economic cooperation between the two sides.

Modern Border Control System

The EU has also committed to supporting the development of a modern border control system based on an effective integrated border management (IBM) system, which will enable the smooth movement of people and goods while maintaining secure borders.

Furthermore, the EU has pledged to reduce poverty and social exclusion in Palestine, particularly among the most vulnerable segments of society. This includes:

Building a sustainable, equitable, and cost-effective social security system
Enhancing public health governance
Improving access to medicines

Infrastructure Development

The EU will also work towards facilitating territorial management and access, including to natural resources, by developing an integrated water and wastewater management system. Additionally, it has committed to intensifying efforts to facilitate connectivity in regional and international infrastructure networks.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

In a statement, the EU expressed its commitment to supporting Palestine’s sustainable development policies, which aim to achieve environmentally sustainable economic development and greater social inclusion.

Education, Research, and Innovation

The EU’s efforts are aimed at enhancing the quality of education, research, and innovation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as well as promoting an information society in the region.

Palestinian Authority Reforms

The European Union has called on the Palestinian Authority (PA) to fully benefit from existing agreements and instruments to which it is entitled. The PA has been urged to implement reforms and take concrete measures to facilitate economic growth and development.

Timeline

Medium-term (2013-2015): Implementation of the Association Agreement, competitiveness of the Palestinian private sector
Long-term (2015-2020): Development of a modern border control system, reduction of poverty and social exclusion, improvement of public health governance, facilitation of territorial management and access

Indicators

Reports from the World Bank and IMF to the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee
Trade figures, including fulfillment of agriculture quotas
Evaluation of Palestinian customs clearance, when operational
Promotion/assessment of an Integrated Border Management system

EU Responsibilities

Continued support to the Palestinian private sector
Implementation of the economic package adopted by EuroMed
Possible Neighbourhood Investment Facility (NIF) support

The European Union’s commitment to supporting Palestine’s economic development is a significant step towards promoting peace and stability in the region. The EU’s efforts will focus on enhancing trade relations, developing infrastructure, and reducing poverty and social exclusion.