(Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Advisor)
 
Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke today (Friday 12 February 2016) with High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini. They discussed the common challenges facing Israel and the EU in fighting terror. HRVP Mogherini expressed solidarity with the people of Israel in light of the terror attacks in recent weeks and reiterated the EU commitment to the security of Israel. PM Netanyahu stressed the need to fight Palestinian incitement, which encourages acts of terrorism against Israeli civilians.
 
Both sides discussed the important relations between Israel and the EU following the publication of the EU Commission's notice on labelling of products originating beyond 1967 lines. The Prime Minister welcomed the position expressed by HRVP Mogherini that the EU strongly opposes boycotts and BDS attempts against Israel, and that the EU notice on labelling of products does not prejudge the outcome of the negotiations on the issue of borders which must be resolved by the parties themselves.
 
Israel opposes illegal construction in area C and the parties agreed to continue the dialogue in this regard.
 
PM Netanyahu and HRVP Mogherini agreed that the relations between the two sides should be conducted in an atmosphere of confidence and mutual respect, an atmosphere that will assist in advancing the Middle East Peace Process. The two parties agreed to convene the Israel-EU Association Council in the near future. PM Netanyahu noted the high level of cooperation between Israel and the EU in the R&D sector, including within HORIZON 2020 program.