Statement by the
Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean
on the escalation of violence in the Middle East

 

 

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean is particularly concerned at the current drift towards a scenario of turbulence and instability in the Southern and Eastern flanks of the region. PAM expresses, first and foremost, its deep preoccupation with regards to the civilian populations in those countries where the unrest has developed into an armed conflict, or are, time and again, innocent victims of terrorist bomb attacks in urban areas.

Secondly, PAM calls on all parties in these countries to embrace, as a sign of good will and in the sole interest of the nation and their people, those moral and ethical principles that, only a few months back, had instilled in the citizens the courage to express, with the highest determination and personal sacrifice, their aspirations for democracy, representation and inclusiveness.

The Western partners and members of PAM and the International Institutions are equally encouraged to take a clear and focused stand without further hesitation in order to assist in a tangible way the difficult process undertaken, which is ultimately aimed at achieving the best possible path for democratic change according to each country’s specific socio-political context.

Furthermore, PAM is also appealing to every member state to identify and remain focused on the root causes of the current situation, and remain determined to support every effort and action which can de-escalate the confrontational attitudes that have taken over.

PAM would like to reiterate that the Mediterranean, as a whole, and its citizens, cannot flourish if values and aspirations are not shared by the entire region’s community within the context of a platform of common interests and objectives. Surely the efforts to re-establish direct talks between Israel and Palestine cannot be allowed to be overshadowed and jeopardized by the spiral of further tensions in the region.

Finally, PAM condemns, once again, all forms of violence and armed conflicts, which at no juncture, will possibly lead to any positive long term settlement or solution. Democratic processes cannot be resolved through violence or imposition. They entail deep commitment, political acumen and statesmanship. For these processes, to be sailed to destination, need dialogue and negotiation.

 

 

Malta 19 August 2013