BRUSSELS, February 12, 2007 (WAFA) - Council of the European Union welcomed the fact that an agreement has been reached in Makka on the formation of a national unity government.

In a press release issued Monday during 2780th External Relations Council meeting in Brussels, the Council paid tribute to the sustained efforts of President Mahmoud Abbas to form a government of national unity and expressed its appreciation for the role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Arab leaders in bringing about Palestinian reconciliation.

The Council expressed EU stands ready to work with a legitimate Palestinian government that adopts a platform reflecting the Quartet principles and welcomed the Quartet statement of 9 February.

It also welcomed the statement by the Quartet at its meeting in Washington on 2 February, in particular its intention to give active follow-up to meetings between Israeli and Palestinian leaders and to remain closely engaged at this moment of increased activity and dialogue.

The Council expressed its full support for the forthcoming meeting between Prime Minister Olmert, President Abbas and Secretary of State Rice, and encouraged the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to launch a process with the goal of ending the occupation that began in 1967 and creating an independent, democratic and viable Palestinian state, living side-by-side in peace and security with Israel.

Reiterating its position, as set out in the European Council Declaration of 14 and 15 December 2006 and the General Affairs and External Relations Council Conclusions of 22 January 2007, the EU underlines its determination to pursue its practical measures and to continue playing an active political role, notably in the framework of increased Quartet engagement.

H.M (23:00 P)-(21:00 GMT)