Reply #12: PA to fight settlement expansion [View All]

[Scurrilous]

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3133930,00.html

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"The Palestinian Authority is set to launch an official campaign Sunday aimed at convincing the international community Israeli plans to construct new homes in the West Bank, and particularly near the settlement of Maaleh Adumim, would serve to undermine peace efforts.

Senior Palestinian officials have engaged in a series of contacts with international sources in recent days, including American and European officials. On Sunday, the PA is expected to hold a press conference on the matter and on Friday it plans to hold a tour for diplomats aimed at pointing out the dangers inherent in Israeli settlement expansion plans.

Palestinian Cabinet Secretary Samir Huleileh told Ynet the Authority is highly concerned about Israeli construction plans.

"What is the message the Israeli government is sending the Palestinian side?" Huleileh asked, blasting Israel for boosting the number of West Bank settlers and expropriating Palestinian land.

Huleileh added the Palestinians have already contacted U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice over the matter and have also relayed a message to British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The PA is also expected to raise the matter with European Union envoy Javier Solana, scheduled to visit the area on Tuesday."