EU states condemn Bush over Israel plan

European governments condemned George W. Bush's backing given on 14 April 2004 of Israel's plans to retain settlements in the occupied West Bank, saying it would weaken prospects for peace. Diplomats said the US stance would also damage transatlantic relations at a time when the US needs European support for stabilising Iraq. Relations are already strained by disputes over the role of the United Nations, trade and the environment.

European Council: Statement: S0102/04 (15.04.04): Comments by Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the CFSP following the meeting with President Bush and Prime Minister Sharon http://consilium.europa.eu/ueDocs/cms_Data/docs/pressdata/en/declarations/79932.pdf

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