Osaily calls on the representatives of EU States to meet in Hebron

Hebron Mayor Khaled Osaily met today (10/9/2010) with Mr. Christian Berger, EU Representative in Jerusalem as well as with the EU Mission’s Information Officer. The visit aimed at getting better acquainted with political, economic and social conditions in Hebron as well as with the increasing difficulties and obstacles imposed by Israel on Palestinians’ daily lives.

“Palestinians in Hebron wish to live a normal life like their peers in all other cities in the world. They aspire to a decent, secure and stable life which is not possible due to occupation and settler practices. All those who visit Hebron, its Old City, its markets and quarters are appalled by the huge suffering of inhabitants which can be clearly seen in each and every part of the Old City. The free world must take immediate steps to ensure the respect of Human Rights treaties and of international resolutions which call for the protection of civilians and for safeguarding their right to live in freedom, dignity, security and stability. All influential powers in the world, especially the EU, must exert pressure on Israel to force it to respect these resolutions and the peace process, put an end to settlement activities and refrain from policies which only hinder peace”, he said.

Osaily stressed the importance of ensuring a normal life for Palestinians and of supporting vital and infrastructure projects in the OPT. He touched on the great achievements made in the past few years and reaffirmed that Palestinians are keen on building their State and Governorates despite all obstacles imposed by Israeli policies.

At the end of the meeting, Osaily called on his guest to organize a meeting for EU State representatives in Hebron in order to get a first-hand view of conditions in the city but also of achievements made despite difficulties and obstacles imposed by occupation authorities on the city, its inhabitants and its institutions.

Mr. Berger accepted this invitation to hold the next meeting of EU State representatives in Hebron at the invitation of Mayor Osaily, who would speak to participants about conditions in Hebron and possible aid to Palestinians.