By : JD News Desk
Jordan Daily – The European Union’s response to the Gaza war has been met with frustration and disappointment, according to Belgian Ambassador to Jordan, Serge Dickschen. The sentiments reflect the high expectations of the EU as a promoter of peace, security, and the rule of law, he said.
Speaking at a reception marking Europe Day at his residence, Dickschen defended Europe’s position. “If our initial response may have come over as indecisive, a result as well of the limits of our decision process, nobody can deny the shift which has taken place since the start of the war,” he said.
The ambassador, whose country currently holding the EU Presidency, pointed to the public outcry in Europe, with thousands taking to the streets in protest. He noted that the condemnations by the High Representative and several Heads of State and government have been loud and unambiguous.
Dickschen highlighted that some of the European Union’s red lines have moved, and taboos have been broken, such as the adoption of sanctions against violent settlers – an idea which seemed an impossibility a year ago.
In the face of turbulent times and the risk of a breakdown of the international order, Dickschen stressed the importance of commemorating Europe Day. “It reminds us that through cooperation and by embracing diversity, we can break the cycle of violence around a commonly defined future,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that this is no easy task. It requires commitment, sacrifices, and the will to compromise and make concessions in order to reach agreements which may be imperfect but acceptable to all.
