BRUSSELS, May 24, 2007, (WAFA)- EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), Javier Solana, welcomed Thursday the extension for another year of the EU Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point between Gaza and Egypt (EUBAM Rafah).

Solana, who is arriving in Gaza today, expected that all parties will ensure the continuous operation of the Rafah Crossing Point, as they have committed themselves to do in the November 2005 Agreement on Movement and Access and by inviting the EU to extend its presence at the crossing point after 24 May 2007, according to a press release issued Thursday by Solana office in Brussels.

The EU has consistently recalled the utmost importance of the full implementation of the Agreement on Movement and Access and urged that Rafah, as well as all other crossing points, remain open.

Solana emphasised that the EU's commitment to remain engaged on the ground. "A key aim of the EU through EUBAM Rafah is to promote cooperation and trust between the parties," he said, according to the statement.

The EU also wants to contribute to Palestinian capacity-building. Both these objectives remain more valid than ever, Solana added.

S.A.S. (13:15 P) (10:15 GMT)