Thank you for contacting me about the normalisation of relations between Israel and Bahrain, Sudan and UAE.
The normalisation of these relations, between countries that are great friends of the UK, is a historic and welcome step. It was encouraging to see that the normalisation between Israel and UAE in August also resulted in the suspension of Israel's plans to annex the West Bank. The UK has consistently opposed these plans, which would have been counterproductive to securing peace in the region.
I pay tribute to the work of the US in brokering these agreements, which are a much-needed boost for peace in the region and I urge others across the region to follow the example of the UAE and Bahrain.
Ultimately, however, there is no substitute for direct talks between the Palestinians and Israel, which is the only way to a reach a two-state solution and a lasting peace. I encourage both sides to resume direct talks and I will continue to follow developments closely.
The UK's partnership with the PA includes a commitment from them to adhere to the principle of non-violence and to tackle language and avoid actions that could incite violence. I welcome that the UK Government continues to urge the PA to uphold these commitments. UK aid to support a stable PA, which can act as an effective partner for peace with Israel, is essential to UK efforts to prepare the ground for a two-state solution.
