High Representative/Vice President Josep Borrell spoke to President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas over the phone on Friday.

The High Representative reiterated the EU’s long-standing political, financial and technical support to the Palestinian people. The EU remains the largest donor to the Palestinian Authority, with an annual contribution worth over €300 million. High Representative Borrell reaffirmed the EU’s readiness to continue strengthening bilateral relations.

The exchange was an opportunity to discuss the latest developments related to the Middle East Peace Process. High Representative Borrell reiterated the EU’s call for urgent efforts to de-escalate tensions and for both sides to avoid actions which could make the situation worse. He stressed that it is vital to create a credible political horizon for peace and for a two state solution. The EU stands ready to provide any support it can to efforts to bring peace.

The High Representative and President Abbas also discussed the prospect of Palestinian elections. The HRVP underlined the importance of the work to restore Palestinian unity, building on the recent understanding reached between different Palestinian factions.