Dhaka: Richard Howitt, visiting vice-chairperson of European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs, told Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha that the European Parliament had decided to recognise the state of Palestine as a sovereign entity.  

‘This, we believe, will give much-needed impetus to the stalled Middle-Eastern peace process,’ Howitt said.  

The Member of Europe Parliament (MEP) was talking to BSS at Hotel Amari here on Friday.

Asked if that was enough, he replied, ‘What else can we do? We take one step at a time and I believe it is a major step forward.’

Replying to a supplementary question regarding the lack of strategic thinking in achieving peace in the Middle East, he said, ‘It would be extremely desirable if such strategic thinking was available but we are trying to do our best under the circumstances.’

‘We understand the genuine grievances of the Arab World and the Muslims in general (about the lack of a fair solution) but then we are trying to address them as best as we can,’ he added.

Asked about the ‘historical burden’ of England and especially Lawrence (of Lawrence of Arabia notoriety), he said, ‘I can only speak for myself and my generation. I cannot take responsibility for what my predecessors did.’

Referring to the way the ‘Arab Spring’ backfired in Syria and Libya, he said, ‘We've initiated peace talks involving all sides (to resolve the Syrian crisis) and we are optimistic about a solution.’

Asked if that included President Bashar Al Assad, he answered in the affirmative.  

Asked if that was enough, he answered, ‘What else can we do?’