30 mar 2013
EU Supports Impoverished Families with Almost €10 Million
The European Union contributed €9.6 million to support impoverished Palestinian families in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, an EU press release said Friday.
A total of €7.85 million came from the EU budget, with Austria contributing an additional €1.25 million and Ireland €0.5 million.
The contribution is the EU’s first for this year out of a total of €40 million allocated for 2013 and will reach almost 60,000 families in need, with more than half of them living in the Gaza Strip.
“The European Union, Austria and Ireland joined efforts to contribute to this year's first payment of social allowances to Palestinians living in extreme poverty in the West Bank and Gaza,” said EU Representative, John Gatt-Rutter.
“In line with the conclusions of the donor coordination group meeting (AHLC) earlier in March, the EU and its Member States are continuing to provide adequate and predictable assistance to meet the recurrent financing requirements for the PA in 2013,” he said.
A total of €7.85 million came from the EU budget, with Austria contributing an additional €1.25 million and Ireland €0.5 million.
The contribution is the EU’s first for this year out of a total of €40 million allocated for 2013 and will reach almost 60,000 families in need, with more than half of them living in the Gaza Strip.
“The European Union, Austria and Ireland joined efforts to contribute to this year's first payment of social allowances to Palestinians living in extreme poverty in the West Bank and Gaza,” said EU Representative, John Gatt-Rutter.
“In line with the conclusions of the donor coordination group meeting (AHLC) earlier in March, the EU and its Member States are continuing to provide adequate and predictable assistance to meet the recurrent financing requirements for the PA in 2013,” he said.
28 mar 2013
Cabinet Approves 2013 Fiscal Year General Budget
The Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, Thursday approved the general budget of the State of Palestine for the 2013 Fiscal Year, and forwarded it to President Mahmoud Abbas for final approval and signing into law, said a Cabinet press release.
The overall expenditures in the draft law are $3.8 billion, including $350 million for development financing in addition to transfers and operations, which also include wages at $1.88 billion and social service expenditures, including the direct social assistance at $110 million.
The press release stated that it is expected that the increase in development financing, compared to last year (an increase of $100 million), would expedite the execution rate of development projects, especially in rural population centers affected by the settlement and wall regime, in the C areas.
It said, “This is in line with the main guiding principle of the budget this year and an extension of the policy in previous years, which is confronting the occupation and its colonization enterprise by supporting the citizens' ability to remain steadfast in their homeland.”
It said that “In terms of revenues, it is expected that $2.5 billion would be collected from tax and related tolls, including clearance revenues.”
As for international assistance, the cabinet said it is expected that $1.4 billion would be provided, including $1.1 billion for expenditures and $300 million for development financing, which are budgeted at $3500 million.
It is also expected that the stepped up efforts to increase the tax base and combat tax evasion as well as to further develop the revenues department would achieve set revenue collection goals, said the Cabinet.
The budget details come in line with the government fiscal policy, which aims to increase self-capabilities, therefore decreasing dependence on outside assistance and the need for it, which in turn consolidates the national capability to protect Palestinians sovereign decision-making in the face of all forms of political pressure, said the statement.
It is expected that the contribution of national revenues in the budget shall increase to 70% in comparison with 57% in 2008 and 67% in 2012.
The overall expenditures in the draft law are $3.8 billion, including $350 million for development financing in addition to transfers and operations, which also include wages at $1.88 billion and social service expenditures, including the direct social assistance at $110 million.
The press release stated that it is expected that the increase in development financing, compared to last year (an increase of $100 million), would expedite the execution rate of development projects, especially in rural population centers affected by the settlement and wall regime, in the C areas.
It said, “This is in line with the main guiding principle of the budget this year and an extension of the policy in previous years, which is confronting the occupation and its colonization enterprise by supporting the citizens' ability to remain steadfast in their homeland.”
It said that “In terms of revenues, it is expected that $2.5 billion would be collected from tax and related tolls, including clearance revenues.”
As for international assistance, the cabinet said it is expected that $1.4 billion would be provided, including $1.1 billion for expenditures and $300 million for development financing, which are budgeted at $3500 million.
It is also expected that the stepped up efforts to increase the tax base and combat tax evasion as well as to further develop the revenues department would achieve set revenue collection goals, said the Cabinet.
The budget details come in line with the government fiscal policy, which aims to increase self-capabilities, therefore decreasing dependence on outside assistance and the need for it, which in turn consolidates the national capability to protect Palestinians sovereign decision-making in the face of all forms of political pressure, said the statement.
It is expected that the contribution of national revenues in the budget shall increase to 70% in comparison with 57% in 2008 and 67% in 2012.
Decrease in the Palestinian Producer Price Index, says Statistics Bureau
The overall Producer Price Index (PPI) for Palestine with its base month (January 2011=100) reached 102.60 in February 2013, as it decreased by 0.78% compared to January 2013, said the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS).
Producer Price Index for exported products (January 2011=100) reached 105.07 in February 2013, which indicates a decrease by 0.46% compared to January 2013.
Producer Price Index for locally consumed products (January 2011=100) reached 102.35 in February 2013, which indicates a decrease by 0.82% compared to January 2013.
It's worth mentioning that the producer's price is the amount receivable by the producer from the purchaser for a unit of a good or service produced as output minus any VAT, or similar deductible tax, invoiced to the purchaser. The producer's prices exclude any transport charges invoiced separately by the producer.
Producer Price Index for exported products (January 2011=100) reached 105.07 in February 2013, which indicates a decrease by 0.46% compared to January 2013.
Producer Price Index for locally consumed products (January 2011=100) reached 102.35 in February 2013, which indicates a decrease by 0.82% compared to January 2013.
It's worth mentioning that the producer's price is the amount receivable by the producer from the purchaser for a unit of a good or service produced as output minus any VAT, or similar deductible tax, invoiced to the purchaser. The producer's prices exclude any transport charges invoiced separately by the producer.
27 mar 2013
General strike at Universities throughout West Bank
Palestinian universities closed doors on Wednesday and Thursday protesting against neglecting their employees' demands by Fayyad's government.
Dr. Amjad Barham President of Palestinian Federation of Unions of University Professors and Employees said, in press statements, that the strike will continue in all West Bank universities, threatening to escalate it during the next week in protest at the policy of Salam Fayyad's government in dealing with the Union's demands.
Fayyad's government failed until the moment in meeting the demands of the Union, Barham added, pointing out to the further escalation of the situation.
The state Universities' employees protested on Tuesday outside PA headquarters, where they handed over a letter to Salam Fayyad containing the employees' demands.
Dr. Amjad Barham President of Palestinian Federation of Unions of University Professors and Employees said, in press statements, that the strike will continue in all West Bank universities, threatening to escalate it during the next week in protest at the policy of Salam Fayyad's government in dealing with the Union's demands.
Fayyad's government failed until the moment in meeting the demands of the Union, Barham added, pointing out to the further escalation of the situation.
The state Universities' employees protested on Tuesday outside PA headquarters, where they handed over a letter to Salam Fayyad containing the employees' demands.
MP Khudari proposes operating Gaza harbor under Turkish supervision
Independent MP Jamal Al-Khudari has said that his popular committee against the siege would propose operating Gaza harbor under Turkish supervision.
He told a press conference in Gaza city on Wednesday that the harbor would import goods via Turkish ports away from Israeli control.
He also said that Gaza crossings should not be linked to any political or security developments and should be open permanently.
Khudari also called for prosecuting Israeli leaders for their crimes against the Palestinian leaders.
The IOA is closing Karm Abu Salem and Beit Hanun (Erez) crossings for the seventh day running at security pretexts and for Jewish feasts.
The MP said that the popular committee was closely following up developments of Gaza blockade and was constantly briefing the Turkish government.
Khudari expressed confidence that Turkey would demand a full removal of the blockade; he also hailed Egyptian and Arab efforts in this regard.
He told a press conference in Gaza city on Wednesday that the harbor would import goods via Turkish ports away from Israeli control.
He also said that Gaza crossings should not be linked to any political or security developments and should be open permanently.
Khudari also called for prosecuting Israeli leaders for their crimes against the Palestinian leaders.
The IOA is closing Karm Abu Salem and Beit Hanun (Erez) crossings for the seventh day running at security pretexts and for Jewish feasts.
The MP said that the popular committee was closely following up developments of Gaza blockade and was constantly briefing the Turkish government.
Khudari expressed confidence that Turkey would demand a full removal of the blockade; he also hailed Egyptian and Arab efforts in this regard.
658.1 Million Deficit in Current Account in 4Q 2012, says Staistics Bureau
The deficit value of the Current Account amounted to $658.1 million (24.2% of the GDP at current prices for the 4th quarter of 2012), compared with a deficit in the previous quarter which amounted to $1,159.3 million.
A joint press release by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) and the Palestine Monetary Authority (PMA) stated in the preliminary results of the Palestinian Balance of Payments in the fourth quarter of 2012 that the deficit in the Trade Balance of goods amounted to $1,159.3 million (42.6% of the GDP in current prices.)
It said that the deficit has decreased by 2.1% compared with the previous quarter.
The deficit in Services Balance amounted to $111.4 million reflecting a decrease of 32.4% compared to the previous quarter. This decline was caused by the decrease of the exports in travel services in addition to the increase of the imports in transportation services.
According to the release, the surplus of $273.6 million was recorded in this account, showing a decrease of 2.0% compared with the previous quarter.
According to the Current Transfers, the surplus value amounted to USD 339.1 million with an decrease of 7.0 percent compared to the previous quarter. The donors' current transfers was 27.6 percent of total value of receipts from abroad.
The surplus value of Capital and Financial Account amounted to $633.9 million, caused mainly by the surplus in Financial Account which amounted to $568.9 million (Direct Investments, Portfolio Investments, Other Investments, and Reserve Assets.)
A joint press release by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) and the Palestine Monetary Authority (PMA) stated in the preliminary results of the Palestinian Balance of Payments in the fourth quarter of 2012 that the deficit in the Trade Balance of goods amounted to $1,159.3 million (42.6% of the GDP in current prices.)
It said that the deficit has decreased by 2.1% compared with the previous quarter.
The deficit in Services Balance amounted to $111.4 million reflecting a decrease of 32.4% compared to the previous quarter. This decline was caused by the decrease of the exports in travel services in addition to the increase of the imports in transportation services.
According to the release, the surplus of $273.6 million was recorded in this account, showing a decrease of 2.0% compared with the previous quarter.
According to the Current Transfers, the surplus value amounted to USD 339.1 million with an decrease of 7.0 percent compared to the previous quarter. The donors' current transfers was 27.6 percent of total value of receipts from abroad.
The surplus value of Capital and Financial Account amounted to $633.9 million, caused mainly by the surplus in Financial Account which amounted to $568.9 million (Direct Investments, Portfolio Investments, Other Investments, and Reserve Assets.)
EU Contributes €148M to Palestinian Authority
The European union contributed €148 million to the Palestinian Authority in the second part of its 2013 assistance package for Palestine, Wednesday said a press release by the European commission. It says that this contribution, which is funded by the European neighborhood and partnership instrument, will ensure that critical support to the PA in the area of health, education and social services to the Palestinian people is not interrupted.
€108 million will be allocated to the PEGASE mechanism (an instrument to channel EU and international assistance as a contribution to the building of the Palestinian State), which supports the Palestinian National Development Plan by helping the PA to finance its budget deficit and implement its reform agenda; meet its obligations towards civil employees, pensioners and most vulnerable citizens, and maintain the functioning of the administration and the provision of essential public services to the population.
It further allocates a second tranche of €40 million to UNRWA's 2013 regular budget (General Fund) in order to support the education, health, relief and social services programs which UNRWA is responsible for providing for Palestine refugees in West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon.
High Representative and Vice-President Catherine Ashton said: “The Ad Hoc Liaison Committee in Brussels on 19 March confirmed that addressing the fiscal crisis of the Palestinian Authority requires concerted action by the PA, Israel and the donor community.”
“With this contribution the European Union delivers on its promise to sustain the PA's viability and its ability to ensure essential services for the Palestinian people without interruption, we will continue to support the Palestinian people, including through UNRWA, and urge other donors to do the same,” she added.
EU commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighborhood Policy, Štefan Füle, commented: 'Despite commendable efforts of budget consolidation, the fiscal problem of the Palestinian Authority is progressively worsening and has been extremely difficult since the end of last year. The EU is aware of these constraints and taking steps to alleviate the problem.”
He added, “These new funds are vital for ensuring that there is no interruption in the provision of basic services, such as health, education, social protection, as well as in the relief to the Palestinian people in Palestine and to the Palestinian refugees abroad.”
€108 million will be allocated to the PEGASE mechanism (an instrument to channel EU and international assistance as a contribution to the building of the Palestinian State), which supports the Palestinian National Development Plan by helping the PA to finance its budget deficit and implement its reform agenda; meet its obligations towards civil employees, pensioners and most vulnerable citizens, and maintain the functioning of the administration and the provision of essential public services to the population.
It further allocates a second tranche of €40 million to UNRWA's 2013 regular budget (General Fund) in order to support the education, health, relief and social services programs which UNRWA is responsible for providing for Palestine refugees in West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon.
High Representative and Vice-President Catherine Ashton said: “The Ad Hoc Liaison Committee in Brussels on 19 March confirmed that addressing the fiscal crisis of the Palestinian Authority requires concerted action by the PA, Israel and the donor community.”
“With this contribution the European Union delivers on its promise to sustain the PA's viability and its ability to ensure essential services for the Palestinian people without interruption, we will continue to support the Palestinian people, including through UNRWA, and urge other donors to do the same,” she added.
EU commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighborhood Policy, Štefan Füle, commented: 'Despite commendable efforts of budget consolidation, the fiscal problem of the Palestinian Authority is progressively worsening and has been extremely difficult since the end of last year. The EU is aware of these constraints and taking steps to alleviate the problem.”
He added, “These new funds are vital for ensuring that there is no interruption in the provision of basic services, such as health, education, social protection, as well as in the relief to the Palestinian people in Palestine and to the Palestinian refugees abroad.”
26 mar 2013
Sheikh Hamad: The Palestinian cause is the number one Arab issue
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the chairman of the current Arab summit, stated on Tuesday that the Palestinian cause is the number one Arab issue and its solution is the key to peace and stability in the middle east.
In his speech in the opening session of the summit today, Sheikh Hamad said that Israel should realize that the violence would not bring it security, and its illegal practices against the Palestinians and their property and its violations against the Aqsa Mosque would only spread tension and frustration and hinder the peace process.
Sheikh Hamas also called for holding a mini Arab summit in Cairo as soon as possible in the presence of Palestinian leaders from Hamas and Fatah factions in order to achieve the national reconciliation within a specific time frame.
He suggested the establishment of an Arab fund to support occupied Jerusalem with one billion dollars immediately and declared that Qatar would contribute 250 million dollars to this fund.
The Emir of Qatar also called on the Arab countries to work on ending Israel's blockade on Gaza and to join the efforts to reconstruct it.
In a related context, political advisor to the Palestinian premier Yousuf Rizqa on Tuesday called on the Arab summit to take concrete steps to address Israel's Judaization and settlement activities in Jerusalem and the West Bank as well as the issues of prisoners and refugees.
Rizqa also urged the summit to take decisions protecting the Palestinian refugees who are still in Syria or fled the war to other countries and oblige the host Arab states to deal with them humanly and positively.
He also demanded the Arabs to fulfill their pledges they had made in the economic summit in Kuwait following the Israeli war in 2009 to support Gaza financially.
Hamas welcomes mini Arab summit to conclude reconciliation
Hamas movement welcomed on Tuesday the call by Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani to hold a mini Arab summit in Cairo to conclude Palestinian reconciliation. A statement for Hamas renewed its welcome to any Egyptian, Arab, and Islamic efforts to support and accelerate national reconciliation and to unite the Palestinian home.
Sheikh Hamad proposed at the opening of the Arab summit in Doha the convening of a mini Arab summit in the presence of Hamas and Fatah leaders to accomplish reconciliation in accordance with a given time frame including the formation of a government of independents figures and agreement on a date for elections.
The Emir also proposed the formation of an Arab fund to support Jerusalem with a capital of one billion dollars, and announced that his country would contribute a quarter of billion. He also recommended ending the siege on Gaza and reconstructing the coastal enclave.
In his speech in the opening session of the summit today, Sheikh Hamad said that Israel should realize that the violence would not bring it security, and its illegal practices against the Palestinians and their property and its violations against the Aqsa Mosque would only spread tension and frustration and hinder the peace process.
Sheikh Hamas also called for holding a mini Arab summit in Cairo as soon as possible in the presence of Palestinian leaders from Hamas and Fatah factions in order to achieve the national reconciliation within a specific time frame.
He suggested the establishment of an Arab fund to support occupied Jerusalem with one billion dollars immediately and declared that Qatar would contribute 250 million dollars to this fund.
The Emir of Qatar also called on the Arab countries to work on ending Israel's blockade on Gaza and to join the efforts to reconstruct it.
In a related context, political advisor to the Palestinian premier Yousuf Rizqa on Tuesday called on the Arab summit to take concrete steps to address Israel's Judaization and settlement activities in Jerusalem and the West Bank as well as the issues of prisoners and refugees.
Rizqa also urged the summit to take decisions protecting the Palestinian refugees who are still in Syria or fled the war to other countries and oblige the host Arab states to deal with them humanly and positively.
He also demanded the Arabs to fulfill their pledges they had made in the economic summit in Kuwait following the Israeli war in 2009 to support Gaza financially.
Hamas welcomes mini Arab summit to conclude reconciliation
Hamas movement welcomed on Tuesday the call by Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani to hold a mini Arab summit in Cairo to conclude Palestinian reconciliation. A statement for Hamas renewed its welcome to any Egyptian, Arab, and Islamic efforts to support and accelerate national reconciliation and to unite the Palestinian home.
Sheikh Hamad proposed at the opening of the Arab summit in Doha the convening of a mini Arab summit in the presence of Hamas and Fatah leaders to accomplish reconciliation in accordance with a given time frame including the formation of a government of independents figures and agreement on a date for elections.
The Emir also proposed the formation of an Arab fund to support Jerusalem with a capital of one billion dollars, and announced that his country would contribute a quarter of billion. He also recommended ending the siege on Gaza and reconstructing the coastal enclave.
Khudari: 2000 truck-loads are held in Israeli ports
MP Jamal al-Khudari, the head of the Popular Committee against the Siege, said that more than two thousand truck-loads are held in Israeli stores and ports and at Karm Abu Salem crossing due to the occupation siege. Khudari said in a press statement on Tuesday that the closure of the Karm Abu Salem crossing, for the sixth consecutive day, is causing the traders and businessmen severe financial losses.
He pointed out that the closure of the crossings have negatively affected the implementation of the different projects in the Gaza Strip, adding that holding the basic and agricultural materials for long time may damage them.
The MP has emphasized the need to open the crossings as it is a natural right for the residents, stressing that their closure is illegal, contrary to the international norms and represents a form of collective punishment.
The head of the Popular Committee against the Siege has also noted that the continuation of restricting the movement of fishermen and reducing the area in which they are allowed to fish has been causing them huge losses.
He pointed out that the closure of the crossings have negatively affected the implementation of the different projects in the Gaza Strip, adding that holding the basic and agricultural materials for long time may damage them.
The MP has emphasized the need to open the crossings as it is a natural right for the residents, stressing that their closure is illegal, contrary to the international norms and represents a form of collective punishment.
The head of the Popular Committee against the Siege has also noted that the continuation of restricting the movement of fishermen and reducing the area in which they are allowed to fish has been causing them huge losses.
Turkish delegation inspects the people's needs in Gaza
A Turkish economic delegation visited on Monday the Gaza Strip to inspect the strip's needs that Turkey could provide for the Palestinian people. During its visit, the Turkish delegation, headed by Mustafa Goktekin the Deputy Head of the Chamber of Commerce in the Turkish city of Kutahya, has met with a number of traders and businessmen in the Chamber of Commerce headquarters in Gaza.
The head of Gazan Chamber of Commerce, Hassan Abu Ryala, welcomed the Turkish delegation stressing the historical and religious relationship between the Palestinian and Turkish people, calling for strengthening the economic relationship between the two people.
He pointed out that the Turkish delegation's solidarity visit aimed to reinforce the economic relations between Turkey and the Gaza strip, noting that it is the first time a Turkish economic delegations visits the Chamber of Commerce in Gaza to discuss the strip's needs.
The Turkish delegation's head expressed his appreciation of the Palestinian people's steadfastness, praising the Palestinian people's victory over and struggle against the Israeli enemy.
We came here to hear your problems and needs, so that we can solve and provide them, said Mustafa Goktekin addressing the Palestinian traders.
The delegation stressed that the visit came under the auspices of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, "who is trying to lift oppression on Muslims around the world."
At the end of the meeting, the Palestinian traders explained the Palestinian people's continued suffering in light of the Israeli siege on the Gaza strip since 6 years.
The head of Gazan Chamber of Commerce, Hassan Abu Ryala, welcomed the Turkish delegation stressing the historical and religious relationship between the Palestinian and Turkish people, calling for strengthening the economic relationship between the two people.
He pointed out that the Turkish delegation's solidarity visit aimed to reinforce the economic relations between Turkey and the Gaza strip, noting that it is the first time a Turkish economic delegations visits the Chamber of Commerce in Gaza to discuss the strip's needs.
The Turkish delegation's head expressed his appreciation of the Palestinian people's steadfastness, praising the Palestinian people's victory over and struggle against the Israeli enemy.
We came here to hear your problems and needs, so that we can solve and provide them, said Mustafa Goktekin addressing the Palestinian traders.
The delegation stressed that the visit came under the auspices of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, "who is trying to lift oppression on Muslims around the world."
At the end of the meeting, the Palestinian traders explained the Palestinian people's continued suffering in light of the Israeli siege on the Gaza strip since 6 years.
25 mar 2013
Israel Announces Transfer of PA Money Regularly
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Monday announced that the Israeli government will transfer Palestinian tax revenues, Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority, regularly, said Netanyahu’s spokesperson in a press release.
He said that this decision was made with the approval of the political-security cabinet members.
He added that Israeli finance minister Yair lapid will instruct resuming transfer of the money.
He said that this decision was made with the approval of the political-security cabinet members.
He added that Israeli finance minister Yair lapid will instruct resuming transfer of the money.
No Change in January Exports, says Statistics Bureau
January exports reached $62.3 million, which is the same as the December figures, said the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) on Monday.
However, they increased by 1% compared to January 2012. Imports, on the other hand, decreased in January and reached $363.6 million compared to December but have showed an increase by 7.5% compared to January 2012.
Trade deficit decreased by 1% in January compared to December and increased by 9% compared to January 2012. It reached $301.3 million.
However, they increased by 1% compared to January 2012. Imports, on the other hand, decreased in January and reached $363.6 million compared to December but have showed an increase by 7.5% compared to January 2012.
Trade deficit decreased by 1% in January compared to December and increased by 9% compared to January 2012. It reached $301.3 million.
Workers in Palestinian universities go on strike for two days
Workers in PA public universities announced they would go on strike on Tuesday and Wednesday after the government of Salam Fayyad failed to meet their demands.
Members of the workers union held a meeting on Sunday and decided to go ahead with the strike demanding implementation of their new scale of salaries and an increase of 30% of their allowance.
A spokesman for the union of workers in government universities said that the strike would continue weekly until their allowance is endorsed and until they receive equal salaries to their colleagues in private universities.
Members of the workers union held a meeting on Sunday and decided to go ahead with the strike demanding implementation of their new scale of salaries and an increase of 30% of their allowance.
A spokesman for the union of workers in government universities said that the strike would continue weekly until their allowance is endorsed and until they receive equal salaries to their colleagues in private universities.
20 mar 2013
Fayyad, Ashton Sign €7M Agreement for Area C Development
On Tuesday 19th March, European Union said in a press release that Prime Minister Salam Fayyad and EU High Representative Catherine Ashton signed a €7 million financing agreement to support development projects in area C.
Fayyad and Ashton adopted an Action Policy Plan between Palestine and the EU. Ashton said that the Action Plan is a result of "a shared commitment to deepen our bilateral relations and strengthen our privileged partnership."
Fayyad and Ashton discussed how to put into practice the shared objectives of this plan, and in particular "the objective to launch agreement for a fully-fledged Association Agreement."
"This plan is about working towards sustainable economic development, about achieving fiscal consolidation and enhancing social cohesion throughout Palestine. It is also about focusing our efforts on East Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip and Area C," said Ashton.
She stated that the agreement aims to support the Palestinian presence and promote social and economic development in Area C, "which we all know is of crucial importance for the economic viability of Palestine."
Fayyad and Ashton adopted an Action Policy Plan between Palestine and the EU. Ashton said that the Action Plan is a result of "a shared commitment to deepen our bilateral relations and strengthen our privileged partnership."
Fayyad and Ashton discussed how to put into practice the shared objectives of this plan, and in particular "the objective to launch agreement for a fully-fledged Association Agreement."
"This plan is about working towards sustainable economic development, about achieving fiscal consolidation and enhancing social cohesion throughout Palestine. It is also about focusing our efforts on East Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip and Area C," said Ashton.
She stated that the agreement aims to support the Palestinian presence and promote social and economic development in Area C, "which we all know is of crucial importance for the economic viability of Palestine."
19 mar 2013
Fuel crisis in Gaza
Fuel is in acute shortage in the Gaza Strip as fuel stations have almost completely ran out of fuel, Mohammed Al-Abadla, board member of the society for owners of fuel stations in Gaza, said on Tuesday.
Abadla told Quds Press that the crisis surfaced over the past three days since fuel from Egypt (via tunnels) was almost nil while crossings with Israel were closed.
Gaza needs 400,000 liters of fuel per day while the power station needs more than 500,000 liters of fuel daily.
Abadla warned of possible negative ramifications if the crisis continued in the few coming days.
He said that the Egyptian security campaign in northern Sinai, the repeated closure of crossings for Jewish feasts, and restrictions on distribution in the enclave had greatly worsened the crisis.
Abadla told Quds Press that the crisis surfaced over the past three days since fuel from Egypt (via tunnels) was almost nil while crossings with Israel were closed.
Gaza needs 400,000 liters of fuel per day while the power station needs more than 500,000 liters of fuel daily.
Abadla warned of possible negative ramifications if the crisis continued in the few coming days.
He said that the Egyptian security campaign in northern Sinai, the repeated closure of crossings for Jewish feasts, and restrictions on distribution in the enclave had greatly worsened the crisis.
17 mar 2013
EU Grants P.A €20.8 To Pay Salaries, Pensions
The European Union (EU) has granted the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank approximately €2.8 so that it can pay pensions and salaries to nearly 82.000 retired persons, and government employees, in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.
The European Union will be paying €20 Million while Holland will be paying €0.8 million. The funds are part of the EU PEGASE aid mechanism to the Palestinian Authority (P.A.) headed by President Mahmoud Abbas.
This is the third PEGASE payment granted to the P.A. so that it can pay salaries and provide basic public services to the Palestinian people in the occupied territories.
An EU committee, in charge of aid to the Palestinian people, will be holding a meeting in Brussels, Monday, in order to discuss the seriously deteriorating financial situation of the P.A. so that its achievements in rehabilitating and building state institutions do not collapse.
The E.U is also trying to ensure that Israel transfers, and continues to transfer, Palestinian Tax and Customs money it collects, on all border terminals its controls in the West Bank.
Furthermore, the EU renewed its calls to all donor countries to ensure continued financial support to the P.A. in a timely manner, through approved and trusted means.
Last month, a senior official at the Palestinian Finance Ministry reported that the money Israel collects on behalf of P.A is approximately 500 Million New Israeli Shekels a month, and that Israel charges the P.A. a %3 interest.
The European Union will be paying €20 Million while Holland will be paying €0.8 million. The funds are part of the EU PEGASE aid mechanism to the Palestinian Authority (P.A.) headed by President Mahmoud Abbas.
This is the third PEGASE payment granted to the P.A. so that it can pay salaries and provide basic public services to the Palestinian people in the occupied territories.
An EU committee, in charge of aid to the Palestinian people, will be holding a meeting in Brussels, Monday, in order to discuss the seriously deteriorating financial situation of the P.A. so that its achievements in rehabilitating and building state institutions do not collapse.
The E.U is also trying to ensure that Israel transfers, and continues to transfer, Palestinian Tax and Customs money it collects, on all border terminals its controls in the West Bank.
Furthermore, the EU renewed its calls to all donor countries to ensure continued financial support to the P.A. in a timely manner, through approved and trusted means.
Last month, a senior official at the Palestinian Finance Ministry reported that the money Israel collects on behalf of P.A is approximately 500 Million New Israeli Shekels a month, and that Israel charges the P.A. a %3 interest.
15 mar 2013
UK Minister for Trade & Investment Visits the Palestinian Territories
The British Consulate General in Jerusalem said in a press release that the UK Minister of State for Trade & Investment, Lord Stephen Green visited Thursday 14th March, the Palestinian territories. He met with Prime Minister Dr. Salam Fayyad to learn about the areas of development of the Palestinian economy, and how British businesses can benefit while contributing to the Palestinian Authority's development plans.
Lord Green also met with Dr. Mohammed Mustafa, the CEO of the Palestine Investment Fund (PIF) and the Economic Adviser of President Mahmoud Abbas to explore the fund's achievements, and the potential contribution of British businesses in its projects.
Lord Green met with prominent business figures in order to reactivate the Palestine Britain Business Council; attract British retails to open shops in Palestinian shopping and commercial centres and to stimulate further trade and investment links.
He welcomed strong Palestinian business interest in closer ties with Britain and said:
"I am delighted to have met such a wide range of Palestinian business people keen to develop new relationships with counterparts in Britain, in particular, I welcome the re-launch today of the Palestine Britain Business Council under the co-chair of Mr. Antoine Mattar (CCC) and Mr. Mazen Sinokrot (SGG). I am confident that the skills and commitment of leading Palestinian and British business people will generate much-needed opportunities and jobs both here and in Britain, in key sectors such as ICT, Tourism, Food & Agriculture and Financial Services.
"I was honoured to meet Prime Minister Dr. Salam Fayyad, and to assure him of Britain's strong support for his government's work to create the institutions of a Palestinian State. We agreed on the importance of business-to-business contacts, and especially the priority to enable Palestinian small & medium sized businesses to grow and creating jobs.
"I shall continue to work closely with Baroness Morris, the Prime Minister's Trade Envoy to the Palestinian Territories, who also visited Ramallah and Rawabi last month, and will ensure that UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) engages with the Palestine Britain Business Council as it takes forward its 2013's Business Plan."
The Minister also visited the new town of Rawabi to learn more about this innovative project and to share the vision of its founder and developer, Mr. Bashar Masri. The two sides explored means of cooperation where British businesses could contribute by providing advanced goods and services to the development of Rawabi. Lord Green invited Mr. Masri and his senior management team to London to promote Rawabi with UK Trade & Investment help.
Lord Green also met with Dr. Mohammed Mustafa, the CEO of the Palestine Investment Fund (PIF) and the Economic Adviser of President Mahmoud Abbas to explore the fund's achievements, and the potential contribution of British businesses in its projects.
Lord Green met with prominent business figures in order to reactivate the Palestine Britain Business Council; attract British retails to open shops in Palestinian shopping and commercial centres and to stimulate further trade and investment links.
He welcomed strong Palestinian business interest in closer ties with Britain and said:
"I am delighted to have met such a wide range of Palestinian business people keen to develop new relationships with counterparts in Britain, in particular, I welcome the re-launch today of the Palestine Britain Business Council under the co-chair of Mr. Antoine Mattar (CCC) and Mr. Mazen Sinokrot (SGG). I am confident that the skills and commitment of leading Palestinian and British business people will generate much-needed opportunities and jobs both here and in Britain, in key sectors such as ICT, Tourism, Food & Agriculture and Financial Services.
"I was honoured to meet Prime Minister Dr. Salam Fayyad, and to assure him of Britain's strong support for his government's work to create the institutions of a Palestinian State. We agreed on the importance of business-to-business contacts, and especially the priority to enable Palestinian small & medium sized businesses to grow and creating jobs.
"I shall continue to work closely with Baroness Morris, the Prime Minister's Trade Envoy to the Palestinian Territories, who also visited Ramallah and Rawabi last month, and will ensure that UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) engages with the Palestine Britain Business Council as it takes forward its 2013's Business Plan."
The Minister also visited the new town of Rawabi to learn more about this innovative project and to share the vision of its founder and developer, Mr. Bashar Masri. The two sides explored means of cooperation where British businesses could contribute by providing advanced goods and services to the development of Rawabi. Lord Green invited Mr. Masri and his senior management team to London to promote Rawabi with UK Trade & Investment help.
14 mar 2013
Health ministry calls for int'l and Arab action ending Gaza power crisis
Spokesman for the Palestinian health ministry Ashraf Al-Qudra called for international and Arab action to end Israel's blockade on the Gaza Strip and solve the electricity crisis, which resulted in many deaths among the civilians. On his facebook page, spokesman Qudra stressed the need for creating a lobby of the world's free people who believe in the Palestinians' right to live with dignity and oppose Israel's illegal blockade on Gaza.
He made his remarks following the death of three brothers and the injury of two others when their house caught fire due to a gas leak from a gas lamp they used after a power outage in Abasan area in Khan Younis.
The spokesman also urged the Arab and Muslim nations to support the steadfastness of Gaza people and work on ending the power crisis in Gaza to avoid death incidents resulting from power outages and the use of alternative lighting means.
He made his remarks following the death of three brothers and the injury of two others when their house caught fire due to a gas leak from a gas lamp they used after a power outage in Abasan area in Khan Younis.
The spokesman also urged the Arab and Muslim nations to support the steadfastness of Gaza people and work on ending the power crisis in Gaza to avoid death incidents resulting from power outages and the use of alternative lighting means.
5 mar 2013
Statistics: Quantity of Industrial Production Up in January
On Tuesday 5th March, the quantity in the industrial production index (IPI) in Palestine increased in January to reach 1.49% compared to the previous month, said the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS).
The increase in IPI was due to an increase in water supply and electricity industry by 37.90% compared to the previous month which had a share of 14.85% of the total industry.
Mining and quarrying industry however decreased by 14.43% during January compared to the previous month which formed a share of 4.59% of the total industry.
Manufacturing industry also decreased by 5.24% compared to the previous month, which had a share of 80.56% from the total industry.
The increase in IPI was due to an increase in water supply and electricity industry by 37.90% compared to the previous month which had a share of 14.85% of the total industry.
Mining and quarrying industry however decreased by 14.43% during January compared to the previous month which formed a share of 4.59% of the total industry.
Manufacturing industry also decreased by 5.24% compared to the previous month, which had a share of 80.56% from the total industry.
4 mar 2013
Japan Donates $10 Million to PA’s Budget
the Government of Japan decided to donate $10 million to the Palestinian Authority's (PA) budget, a statement by Japan's representative office in Ramallah. The donation was made through the Palestinian Recovery and Development Plan Multi-Donor Trust Fund (PRDP-MDTF) of the World Bank.
Prime Minister Salam Fayyad signed an agreement to that effect with Mariam Sherman, Country Director of the World Bank, West Bank and Gaza Country Office, and Junya Matsuura, representative of Japan to PA.
Japan has supported the Palestinian Authority with $110 million since 2012, which is a part of $1.34 billion contributions since the signing of the Oslo accords in 1994.
Japanese aid went to supporting financially and technically economic development efforts exerted by key ministries to help prepare the Palestinian Authority for statehood in line with its national development plans.
Japan has also provided assistance through UNRWA, the United Nations Palestinian refugee aid agency, and other UN agencies including humanitarian assistance, as well as to local non-governmental organizations and local councils for their grassroots development projects.
Prime Minister Salam Fayyad signed an agreement to that effect with Mariam Sherman, Country Director of the World Bank, West Bank and Gaza Country Office, and Junya Matsuura, representative of Japan to PA.
Japan has supported the Palestinian Authority with $110 million since 2012, which is a part of $1.34 billion contributions since the signing of the Oslo accords in 1994.
Japanese aid went to supporting financially and technically economic development efforts exerted by key ministries to help prepare the Palestinian Authority for statehood in line with its national development plans.
Japan has also provided assistance through UNRWA, the United Nations Palestinian refugee aid agency, and other UN agencies including humanitarian assistance, as well as to local non-governmental organizations and local councils for their grassroots development projects.
26 feb 2013
Israel Transfer 350 M. NIS To P.A.
Israeli media sources reported Monday that Israel has officially transferred 350 Million New Israeli Shekels (NIS) to the Palestinians Authority. The money is Palestinian Tax money Israel collects on border terminal on behalf of P.A. in the West Bank.
The sources said that the decision to transfer the money was made by Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
The amount is the total amount transferred to the P.A. after Israel deducted 77 M. NIS as part of Palestinian debts owed to the Israeli regional power and water companies.
Israel collects Palestinian Tax money of border terminals as the P.A. does not control, or even have any presence, on borders in the occupied West Bank.
Meanwhile, a senior official at the Palestinian Finance Ministry reported that the money Israel collects on behalf of P.A is approximately 500 Million a month, and that Israel charges the P.A. a %3 interest.
The official added that Israel usually deducts around 100 Million a month without consulting the P.A.
He further stated that part of the money Israel deducts goes for bills, including medical treatment of Palestinians transferred to Israeli hospitals, in addition to compensation cases ruled by Israeli courts against the Palestinians.
The sources said that the decision to transfer the money was made by Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
The amount is the total amount transferred to the P.A. after Israel deducted 77 M. NIS as part of Palestinian debts owed to the Israeli regional power and water companies.
Israel collects Palestinian Tax money of border terminals as the P.A. does not control, or even have any presence, on borders in the occupied West Bank.
Meanwhile, a senior official at the Palestinian Finance Ministry reported that the money Israel collects on behalf of P.A is approximately 500 Million a month, and that Israel charges the P.A. a %3 interest.
The official added that Israel usually deducts around 100 Million a month without consulting the P.A.
He further stated that part of the money Israel deducts goes for bills, including medical treatment of Palestinians transferred to Israeli hospitals, in addition to compensation cases ruled by Israeli courts against the Palestinians.
