Brussels, Ramadan 23, 1434, Aug 1, 2013, SPA - High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton welcomed on Wednesday the resumption of direct talks between the Palestinian and Israeli negotiating teams in Washington DC, said a statement by the EU on Wednesday. She said: 'The European Union has consistently supported a two state solution. We will continue to work hard in support of the parties to reach peace in the Middle East and security for all. In this context I welcome the resumption of direct talks between the Israeli and Palestinian negotiating teams in Washington DC and commend once again U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry's efforts in achieving what is a crucial first step towards a lasting peace,' she was quoted as saying by the State of Palestine News Agency "WAFA." --SPA 11:30 LOCAL TIME 08:30 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/1133985