MUSCAT: The European Union and Gulf Cooperation Council jointly called for continuous humanitarian and financial assistance to the Palestinian territories on Tuesday, alleviating concerns that aid might be halted in the aftermath of the Hamas attack on Israel.
Foreign ministers from both blocs convened in Muscat, Oman, following mixed messages regarding EU aid in the wake of Saturday’s unprecedented assault of Hamas.
The 27th EU-GCC Ministerial Meeting has kicked off today in Muscat. Especially now it is important to work on common solutions and to strengthen our strategic partnership. pic.twitter.com/kjDzGPOK4e
— EU in the GCC (@EUintheGCC) October 10, 2023
Palestinians Remain a Priority for EU and GCC
In a joint declaration delivered by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, they emphasized the significance of maintaining financial support for UNRWA (the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees) and continuing humanitarian and developmental aid for Palestinians residing in the occupied territories.
Borrell clarified that reports of Germany canceling aid after Saturday’s attack were based on “false information.” He stated that the German government had affirmed its commitment to providing ongoing support, albeit with a focus on medium and long-term developments without immediate suspension.
