'We have focused on the Middle East and our concern over the lack of progress in the peace process. We are prepared to do what we can to establish a peace process,' Bildt said.

EU foreign policy spokesman Javier Solana, who also participated in the news conference, expressed his hope that progress could soon be achieved in the peace process.

'We have an opportunity now that we must use to move forward,' said Solana, who just returned from traveling in the region.

Both of them urged Israel to scrap plans to build new Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

'The plans are illegal and they are an impediment to the peace process,' said Bildt.

'We are very disappointed by some of the statements referred to in the last hours,' Solana said. 'I hope very much that (Israel's plan) will not be realized.'