These are extracts of the speech delivered by the European Representative to Palestine at the Palestine Liberation Organization’s Jericho event:

“On behalf of my EU colleagues, I would like to extend our gratitude to Governor Abu al-ASAL for hosting us today and to the PLO for providing us with a valuable analysis of the situation on the ground, and the threat posed by possible Israeli annexation.

Let me get straight to the point and address the possible annexation by Israel of parts of the occupied Palestinian territory. Our position is very clear.

First, we consider that unilateral annexation would constitute a serious violation of international law. We have reiterated that we will not recognise any changes to the pre-1967 borders, including with regard to Jerusalem, other than those agreed by both sides, and – in line with international law and UN Security Council resolutions – we do not recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the territories occupied since 1967. We will therefore closely monitor the situation and its broader implications, and we will act accordingly.

Second, unilateral annexation would cause real – and possibly irreparable – damage to the prospects for a negotiated two-state solution. We continue to support the two-state solution, based on international parameters and on 1967 lines, with Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace, security and mutual recognition – (as set out in the European Union Council Conclusions of July 2014).

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Third and finally, from a European Union perspective, annexation would inevitably have consequences for the close relationship we currently enjoy with Israel. The European Union has its own obligations and responsibilities under international and European Union law, and as stated by the High Representative, the EU will continue to monitor the situation closely, including any steps towards possible annexation, and act accordingly.

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Allow me to conclude. We want to reassure you that we remain fully committed to a just and durable solution and fully support your aspirations for a future Palestinian State living in peace and security alongside Israel.”

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Full speech