Luxembourg, Apr 21 (EFE).- Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed his opposition on Tuesday to sanctions against Israel and the total suspension of the EU’s association agreement with the Israeli state, calling it «inappropriate» and advocating instead for constructive dialogue with Tel Aviv on all critical issues.
«We have to talk with Israel about the critical issues,» Wadephul said upon arriving at the EU Foreign Affairs Council.
The minister said that the German government was critical of the recent introduction in Israel of the death penalty for those convicted of terrorist murder, and recalled that Berlin had previously warned against taking this step.
He added that his country had a very clear position regarding the violence of Israeli settlers, and in this regard, stressed that he expected the Israeli government as a whole to oppose it more clearly and firmly, and with all the means that the rule of law offered.
The German government’s position on compliance with international law is also clear, with Wadephul saying that there should be no annexation in the West Bank.
Germany continues to insist that a two-State solution must be made possible, he added.
«(But) That has to be done in a critical, constructive dialogue with Israel. That is what we stand for,» the German minister said.
Wadephul also referred to the ceasefire and the talks between Lebanon and Israel, which give reason to harbor cautious hope, according to him, while encouraging both parties to continue down this path.
What is needed now, he pointed out, are solid agreements for the protection of the civilian population on both sides of the Blue Line, security for UN peacekeepers, as well as lasting peace within the framework of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. EFE
egw/pd
