Mr. Chairperson, Dear Colleagues,

I would like to thank co-chairs France, Norway, Representative of the Quartet and the European Commission for organizing this meeting.

On November 27th in Annapolis, Israelis and Palestinians took a step forward in the Middle East Peace Process by agreeing to re-launch permanent status talks. This was a crucial turning point on the way towards a just and lasting peace.

Success of the process that was started at Annapolis is vital. And, success depends upon the commitment of the two sides, as much as that of the international community.

Annapolis set the agenda and defined the objectives. A viable and independent Palestinian State should be established by the end of 2008. Preaparing the institutions of an independent state and raising the economic standards of the Palestinians are indispensable for a lasting permanent status agreement.

The Palestinian National Authority ise now embarking on a challenging reform agenda. A comprehensive Palestinian Reform and Develophment Plan for 2008-2010 has been prepared and presented this morning by Prime Minister Fayyad.

Immediate measures should be taken in order to imrove the daily lives and socio-economic conditions of the Palestinians. The lifting of restrictions on movement of people and acess to goods, both in the West Bank and in the Gaza Strip should be realized without delay.

To prepare the basis for a sustainable economic development, there has to be rule of law, good governance and strong institutions.

Developing the economy requires the support of the private sector. Therefore, initiatives such as the “Industry for Peace” projects of the Ankara Forum in Erez and Tarqumiah are important. The aim is to create a new economic perspective for Palestine, jobs for the Palestinians and proper environment fort he Palestinian businesses to flourish, while acting as a confidence building measure betwen Paletsine and Israel.

Palestine is at a crossroads. As the international community, the responsibility falls also upon us. We must extend our helping hand to the Palestinians in their preparation for statehood and renew our commitment for the new vision of peace initiated in Annapolis.

For its part, Turkey will be contributing to this goal with 150 million US Dollars on project basis for the period of three years following the initiation of the Palestinian Reform and Development Plan.

Let us work together for the successful conclusion of the process that was started in Annapolis. Let us work together for a viable and independent Palestinian state. Let us work together for a better and brighter future for the Middle East.

Thank you.