European Union has welcomed the decision by Israel and the Palestinians to resume direct negotiations. In a statement last night, EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said the decision by the parties to engage in substantive talks represents a major step on the road towards a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the region. Ashton, high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy, also commended U.S. President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Senator George Mitchell for their hard work and determination to bring the Israelis and Palestinians to the negotiating table. On behalf of the EU, Ashton said, she would continue to work with the parties to support the negotiations, striving for a two-state solution with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security with each other and their neighbours.