STOCKHOLM, June 30, 2008 (WAFA) - The Swedish Government announced on Monday that it has adopted a new strategy for development assistance to the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

The Swedish Foreign Ministry said in a statement that, according to the strategy, Palestinian priorities and the Palestinian Reform and Development Plan will serve as guidelines for Swedish development assistance.

'The strategy has been adopted at a time when it is especially important that the rest of the world gives its full support to the parties and to a negotiation solution,' reads the statement. 'Through the new strategy, Sweden is showing its support to Palestinian state-building and the ongoing peace process.'

Sweden is one of the largest EU donors of support to the Palestinian people. In 2007, Swedish aid amounted to 100 million U.S. dollars.

A.D