The programme aims to train Palestinian graduates about the European Union and to apply this knowledge to regional and international affairs. It is part of PASSIA's endeavour to meet the needs of the Palestinian community for formal education, training and practical experience in an area that is receiving increasing attention as Palestinians define and address their own political and economic needs.

PASSIA hopes that this seminar - held at this crucial period in our history - will enable Palestinians to continue the process of state-building and to enhance relations and understanding with the European Union and the international community more generally.

Having put together all the material to publish the full report on the PASSIA Seminar 1995/96 "The European Union", the PASSIA Academic Committee would like to use the opportunity to express its deep gratitude to the Ford Foundation, Cairo, whose financial support made this programme feasible, to the Commission of the European Union (Directorate General I) for its financial contribution which facilitated the Field Trip, and to all individuals whose encouragement and valuable support contributed to make the seminar and field trip a success.

We thank most warmly the guest lecturers from Europe, Dr. Rosemary Hollis, Head of the Middle East Programme at the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), London and Dr. Paul Meerts from the Netherlands Institute of International Relations "Clingendael", The Hague, and all the local Palestinian and foreign lecturers for their valuable contribution.

Last but not least our thanks go to the Palestinian participants whose serious commitment to and enthusiastic participation in the seminar course are highly appreciated.

Jerusalem, March 1996
The PASSIA Academic Committee