President Of European Council António Costa To Represent EU At Sharm El-Sheikh Summit For Peace

The European Council President, António Costa, will represent the European Union at the "Sharm El-Sheikh Summit for Peace" on Monday, 13 October. This event is hosted by Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and U.S. President Donald J. Trump. The summit aims to foster peace between Palestinians and Israelis.

"A long path toward peace starts tomorrow in Egypt. The international community is united in its commitment to a future where Palestinians and Israelis live side by side in peace and security. For the first time in a long time, there is real hope. Hope for the release of all hostages, for a ceasefire, and the unrestricted humanitarian access to Gaza. Hope for a just and sustainable peace, and a brighter future, grounded in the two-state solution. Together, we will help rebuild Gaza and help heal the wounds. We will not forget the horrific events of 7 October 2023, which should never be repeated,'' said António Costa, President of the European Council, in a statement ahead of the summit.

The EU is dedicated to supporting transitional governance and reconstruction efforts to ensure success after conflict resolution. This includes ongoing assistance to the Palestinian Authority. These initiatives aim to establish long-term stability through a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine coexist peacefully.

As one of the top global humanitarian aid donors, the European Union prioritises saving lives and alleviating suffering among Palestinians while upholding human dignity. The EU's contributions are vital in addressing immediate needs and fostering lasting peace.

In September, António Costa represented the EU at a high-level conference focused on peacefully resolving the Palestinian question through a two-state solution. Organised by France and Saudi Arabia during the UN General Assembly in New York City, this conference underscored international collaboration for peace.

The upcoming summit represents hope for releasing hostages, achieving a ceasefire, and ensuring humanitarian access to Gaza without restrictions. It also aims to lay foundations for enduring peace based on mutual recognition and cooperation between both states.

The European Union remains committed to rebuilding efforts in Gaza while addressing past grievances from events like those on 7 October 2023. Such tragic incidents must not recur as stakeholders work towards healing wounds through dialogue and cooperation.

With inputs from WAM