RAMALLAH, December 24, 2009 (WAFA)- Prime Minister Salam Fayyad signed, yesterday, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Swiss Government representative at the Palestinian Authority, Ronald Steininger.

The signing ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s office in Ramallah. The MoU marks Swiss contribution to purchase fuel for Gaza Strip through the PEGASE mechanism. With this payment, Switzerland is contributing to the provision of essential public services by the Palestinian Authority in favour of the population of Gaza living under very adverse conditions because of the blockade.

Prime Minster Fayyad stated that this support comes to assist the Palestinian people to attain their needs in the Gaza strip, to help them face all the needs and obstacles of the Palestinian people, and assist in the development process.

PM Fayyad stressed the necessity to pressure the Israelis to lift the blockage  imposed on the Gaza strip and open all crossing points  which will allow the Palestinian Authority to start with their plan in building the Gaza strip.

PM Fayyad thanked the Swiss Government for their continuous support provided to the Palestinian people and their government. He also expressed gratitude for their solidarity with the rights of the Palestinian people, and their right to end the occupation and attain freedom by building their state on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.   

Switzerland is committed to the principles of aid harmonization and coordination. PEGASE provides a comprehensive aid mechanism that responds to humanitarian needs in addition to providing the Palestinian Authority the means to implement its development plans.