17-NOV-1993
Joint Statement
Following the First Meeting of the
Palestinian-Israel Economic Cooperation Committee
The Palestinian-Israeli Economic Cooperation Committee - which was
established and will work and decide in compliance with the Declaration
of Principles signed on 13 September 1993 and the decision of the PLO
and Israel in their meeting in Cairo on 13 October 1993 - held its first
meeting in Paris on 16 November 1993. The Palestinian Delegation was
headed by Abu-Ala, Member of the Central Committee of the FATAH Movement
and Director General of the Economic and Planning Department of the PLO,
and the Israeli by Finance Minister Avraham Shohat. The Co-Chairmen made
opening statements reflecting their respective positions.
The two sides reviewed the economic situation in the West Bank and Gaza
Strip and emphasized the need for rapid progress in the economic
condition of the Palestinian people therein. The heads of the two
delegations shared the view that there is a correlation between sound
economic relationships, based on mutual recognition of each other's
interests and the right of the Palestinian people to execise their
economic decision making power in accordance with their economic plans
and priorities, and the success of the peace process now on its way.
The delegations agreed that Israel and the Palestinian authority with
establish a framework of economic cooperation which will be predicated
on the principles of reciprocity, equity and fair economic
relationships, as well as the enhancement of the role of the private
sector in promoting economic growth, and mutual respect for each party's
economic relations with the other parties.
The Palestinian Delegation emphasized its special economic relationship
with the Arab world - particularly Jordan, the international community
and the UN bodies.
Both sides decided to accelerate their work so as to meet the objectives
agreed upon in the Declaration of Principles and to ensure their
implementation. Bearing this in mind, they have agreed upon an agenda
for their negotiations which will accommodate their mutual economic
interests.
The two delegations have agreed to establish three sub-committees which
will deal simultaneously with the following:
1. Trade and Labor
2. Fiscal Matters
3. Finance and Banking
Other sub-committees may also be established.
The two delegations have concurred in the importance of the Multilateral
Working Groups' progress and their contribution to a more stable and
prosperous Middle East. They have noted with satisfaction the assistance
pledged by the international community as reflected in the resolutions
of the Donor's Conference in Washington and Paris.
The Economic Cooperation Committee and the sub-committees will resume
their work next week (23-25 November, 1993) in Paris.
The two delegations have expressed their appreciation of the hospitality
provided by the Government of France.