UK govt: Blocks on Gaza growth
Douglas Alexander visited the Middle East this month
Also In The News
|
A stunning goal by former  |
Monday, 24, Dec 2007 12:32
Gaza's humanitarian situation is becoming progressively worse as a result of "very significant blocks" on the economy, according to Douglas Alexander.
The international development secretary believes that the people of the Palestinian territory are losing out because of the ongoing political unrest in the region.
He acknowledged that stumbling blocks existed on both sides of the peace process but called for a renewed focus in the new year to achieving a settlement.
"As a direct result of the conflict that has existed for so many years there are now very significant blocks on the ability of the Palestinian economy to grow and to prosper," he told the Today programme.
"I was looking at the figures yesterday evening and in terms of medical supplies, there are now 157 essential medical items that are out of stock in Gaza."
Former prime minister Tony Blair will begin his first full year as Middle East envoy next month and has promised to deal with all parties fairly in an attempt to find a solution.
He will need to tread lightly as he seeks to rekindle diplomatic discourse between Israelis and Arabs in the region, but Mr Alexander believes there is reason to be hopeful.
The minister, who has just returned from a visit to the territories, said there were "some grounds for cautious optimism" that the peace process could now get back on track.
"The Israelis legitimately uphold the need to protect their people from suicide bombers," he added.
"There have been scenes of attacks from Gaza into southern Israel and it is therefore understandable that the government in Israel is deeply cornered about the security of its people.
"But on the other hand, we have a situation where we need to find a way forward."
Mr Alexander last week attended a conference of donors in Paris, which followed US-sponsored talks between all parties in Annapolis.
He pledged up to £243 million on behalf of the UK to the Palestinian Authority over three years, linked to ongoing progress in the peace process, as part of an overall package of $7.4 billion (£3.7 billion) in aid made available to the Palestinians.