"EMPA is a political bridge across the Mediterranean, a unique form of cooperation, we need more than ever to give boost to the peace process and the economies of the region" - EP President Jerzy Buzek said prior to the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly plenary and Bureau meetings, which will take place in Amman at the end of this week.

As the President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek is also the Vice-President of the Assembly. Jerzy Buzek will have an audience with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan on Sunday afternoon.

The Amman Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly plenary meeting focuses on Middle East Peace Process, Climate and Environmental Change and Renewable Energy in the Mediterranean. It will discuss the transformation of the Facility for the Euro Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP) into a Euro Mediterranean Bank.

On the Middle East Peace process, EP President Buzek commented:
"I have recently held meetings with both the Foreign Minister of Israel and the President of the Palestinian National Authority. The European Parliament is fully engaged in rebuilding trust on both sides. Our first concern is for further negotiations to start as soon as possible, and for that we need the goodwill on both sides."

On energy co-operation, President Buzek added:
"We see a strong potential for energy cooperation in the Middle East to bridge political differences.  This cooperation is of key importance for our citizens, who want secure energy supplies at reasonable prices."

A final press conference with the participation of EP President Jerzy Buzek takes place on Sunday 14 March at 14.00.

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Note to Editors:

Audiovisual news footage of the visit will be will be broadcast on Europe by Satellite (EbS) at the following times (see below) and will also be available for download in MPG2 (broadcast quality) and MPG4 at the following web addresses shortly after:

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For further information:

Inga Rosińska
Spokeswoman
Mobile: +32 498 981 354