| Date: 03/08/2012 Time: 09:57:00 PM |
The United States welcomes the understanding on
tax revenue collection between the Palestinian Authority and the government of
Israel, a US State Department spokesman said on Friday.
"This is significant for both parties: It should facilitate the flow of
goods between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, reduce smuggling, and
increase tax revenues to be shared by both parties," said department acting
deputy spokesman Patrick Ventrell.
"It should also demonstrate the very practical value of the results of
talks between the two parties. Even as we encourage the parties to return to
negotiations aimed at agreement on a two-state solution, none of us should
lose sight of the value of pursuing practical measures that improve the daily
lives of Palestinians as well as Israelis."
Solving the financial and economic difficulties facing the Palestinian
Authority and ensuring the viability of the Palestinian economy are necessary
for a future Palestinian state, and are in the interests of the parties, the
United States and the entire international community, he said.
It is also valuable to facilitate Israeli authorities' efforts to implement
improved customs and other tax procedures, he said. |