§ 16. Mr. PollardTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the progress on the Middle East road map. [117954]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe publication of the road map and the summit in Sharm el-Sheikh has created a vital new opportunity in the Middle East Peace Process. This is the best opportunity to make progress for over two years, The parties must seize it, acting in parallel to improve the security and humanitarian situation.
I welcome President Bush's continuing engagement, as demonstrated by his summits with Arab leaders at Sharm al-Shaikh and with Prime Ministers Abbas and Sharon at Aqaba.
Both sides have made important commitments: the Palestinians on ending terrorism and incitement, the Israelis on dismantling settlement outposts and improving the humanitarian situation. The Palestinian and Israeli people now need to see deeds that match these words. Extremists must not be allowed to prevent progress and condemn the people to further suffering. All parties must remain courageous and committed to peaceful dialogue. The Palestinian and Israeli people now need to see deeds that match these words. Progress will require parallel actions.
§ 22. Mr. BlizzardTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of progress with the road map for peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict. [117960]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienI refer my hon. Friend to the answer given earlier in the House today by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary to the hon. Member for Fareham (Mr. Hoban).