Economic Roadmap Essential For Middle East Peace

British Prime Minister: "Economic Roadmap" Essential For Middle East Peace

20 July 2008 - A flourishing regional economy is essential for a lasting peace between Israel and Palestine, the Prime Minister said today.

Speaking in a press conference with Prime Minister Olmert, Mr Brown said that all parties must seize the opportunity for peace in the region. He added that monetary support was important, and called for an economic roadmap to run alongside the political roadmap to peace.

At an earlier press conference with Palestinian President Abbas, the PM announced a further $60 million on top of $500 million the British Government has pledged to the Palestinian economy over the next three years.

He announced plans to host an international investment conference for the Palestine later this year, and said help would be available to train Palestinian security forces.

Representatives from British firms accompanied the Prime Minister on his visit to the region, and have been taking part in business conferences to identify investment opportunities.

Earlier, Mr Brown laid a wreath in the Hall of Remembrance at Yad Vashem in Jerasalem, and visited the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem.

The PM arrived in the region after visiting Iraq, where he held talks with military and political leaders, and met with UK troops in Basra.

ENDS

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