RAMALLAH, May 19, 2014 (WAFA) – Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah Monday emphasized the importance of institutional development and reform, based on the principles of accountability and transparency.

Hamdallah’s remarks came during a meeting with the representatives of the donor countries which was held in the cabinet headquarters in Ramallah.

He said the government is seeking reformation, including the expansion of the revenue base and rationalization of the government expenditures.

Hamdallah also briefed them on the Israeli obstacles facing the government as a result of Israel’s continued occupation of the Palestinian territory, the imposition of facts on the ground and the exploitation of natural resources.

 He further underscored the need to intensify financial support for the development of projects in Area C, under Israeli civil and military control.

In the meantime, Hamdallah stated that building an effective knowledge-based economy lies at the top of the government priorities, side by side with institutional building, human rights protection, reducing unemployment, good governance, social protection and infrastructural development.

He finally called for a comprehensive plan to be put in place so as to improve the work of government departments to enable them to meet the public needs and expectations.

M.N./T.R.