The European Union Representative in a statement issued in agreement with the EU Heads of Mission in Jerusalem and Ramallah, expressed deep regret over Israel’s extension of the ban on Palestinian institutions in East Jerusalem, including the Orient House and the Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which have now been prevented from operating for the past 18 years.

The EU Missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah “believes that there is a strong need for such institutions, which should be allowed to function as focal points for Palestinians in East Jerusalem.”

“This is a key concern for the EU, as the lack of Palestinian institutional presence in East Jerusalem continues to negatively affect the political, economic, social and cultural life of Palestinians living there, as well as the security situation on the ground,” said the statement.

The European Union has a clear and consolidated position on Jerusalem, reaffirmed in numerous Foreign Affairs Council conclusions; The EU will not recognize any changes to the pre-1967 borders including with regard to Jerusalem, other than those agreed by the parties, the statements concluded.