Roche calls on Middle East leaders to put their people first.

Speaking in the Seanad debate on the Middle East, Minister for European Affairs Dick Roche T.D., indicated the concern of the Irish Government that the “leaders on both sides of the crisis in the Middle East focus their energy on seeking solutions rather than on endless recriminations”. 

“It is critical that the current negotiations lead to a longer-term and agreed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas”, the Minister said.

“I would appeal today to the leaders on both sides to put their people first, and do everything to reach agreement. It would be tragic if this ceasefire were seen instead by some leaders as an opportunity to reload and prepare for future conflict. Any such cynical approach would rightly be criticised by future generations”

Minister Roche also addressed the evolving factors which will impact on the Middle East Peace Process in the next months, including the formation of a new Government in Israel, efforts to bring together the factions on the Palestinian side, and the engagement of President Obama and his new Special Envoy, Senator George Mitchell.

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18th February 2009
Press Office