By NNN-WAFA
Malta : The EU and the League of Arab States ministerial meeting held in Malta came to a close on Tuesday afternoon.
During the meeting ministers stressed the importance of the continuation of political and economic reforms in their respective countries, in order to broaden the scope of political participation and to promote sustainable economic development.
Ministers expressed their confidence that renewed economic dynamism and growth will promote prosperity and stability in both regions.
Ministers reaffirmed that their commitment to peace and the respect of democratic principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms, remain central in the dialogue between the EU and the League of Arab States.
The discussion on regional issues covered various areas of mutual interest with ministers reaffirming their support for the current Israeli–Palestinian negotiations towards a peaceful two state solution.
They also confirmed that both the League of Arab States and the EU stand ready to support the Parties during negotiations and the subsequent implementation period.
Ministers expressed deep concern about the situation in Gaza and called for the immediate re-opening of the crossings between Gaza and Israel, so that essential goods and services, including fuel, can be supplied on a continuous basis.
Ministers affirmed their concerns at the consequences of climate change and considered that the EU and the League of Arab States have an obligation to their peoples to combat global warming.