Palestinian president, top EU diplomat speak by phone

By Gulsen Topcu

RAMALLAH (AA) - Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell spoke by phone Tuesday on the latest developments in the region.

Abbas reiterated his country's support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He said his country has always respected international law and the Arab Peace Initiative.

Borrell said in response that the EU supports the two-state solution and peace efforts.

He said the EU is calling on both sides to re-engage and refrain from any unilateral actions contrary to international law that could exacerbate tensions.

Borrell noted that the EU is especially concerned by statements on the prospect of annexation of the Jordan Valley and other parts of the West Bank.

"In line with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, the EU does not recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the territories occupied since 1967," he added.

Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump released his long-awaited plan to end the Israeli-Palestinian dispute during a press conference at the White House alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. No Palestinian representatives were present.

The plan refers to Jerusalem as “Israel’s undivided capital” and recognizes Israeli sovereignty over parts of the West Bank. It also proposes a Palestinian state whose territories would be connected through roads, bridges and tunnels.

*Writing by Fahri Aksut