(Communicated by the Foreign Minister’s Bureau)

 

At their meeting, the two discussed bilateral and political issues. FM Liberman briefed FM Carr on the situation in the Middle East and the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.

 

FM Liberman stated that in recent months Israel has gone to considerable lengths to improve the relationship with the Palestinians and performed a series of actions, including the decision of the social-economic cabinet on 14 July 2012 to provide work permits to 5,000 Palestinian workers and the transfer of a NIS 180 million advance against future tax returns for the Ramadan month. FM Liberman noted further that an agreement between the Israel Electric Company and the Palestinian Energy Authority for the building of four electric power substations in the West Bank had been signed. Israel has also authorized infrastructure projects in Area C, mainly for the establishment of industrial parks and for the rehabilitation of infrastructure, and has removed roadblocks in Judea and Samaria.

 

FM Liberman stated that the Palestinian response to these gestures was received on 24th July, in the form of a slanderous letter to the European Union in which they falsely accused Israel of theft and exploitation of natural resources, the closing of the Gaza Strip, destruction of projects in Area C, settler violence directed at the Palestinian population, building in the settlements and more. FM Liberman noted that the style and spirit of the letter is better suited to the Protocols of the Elders of Zion and Der Stürmer.

 

FM Liberman added that in light of these occurrences, it is clear to all that while Abu Mazen is at the helm of the Palestinian Authority there is no chance for progress or agreement with the Palestinians.