EU vows extra €100 mln to Palestinian Authority

The European Commission affirmed that the European Union (EU) will double its aid for Palestinian development and the Palestinian Authority to reach 200 million euros in 2012, media reports have indicated. According to a release by the Commission published by Palestinian news agency (Ma'an), the development aid will be focused on water, sanitation and support for refugees. A further 100 million euros aid credits unspent last year will be also spent in 2012, the statement added. "The decision shows our commitment to help the people of Palestine in the areas which are vital to their everyday lives," EU Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighborhood Policy Stefan Fuele said. Meanwhile, the US Department of State announced efforts to convince the Congress to transfer $200 million as pledged, specially now while as it undergoes a critical economic situation.