The European Union plans to boost humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territories by 7 million euros ($10 million), the European Commission's press service said on Tuesday.

Karel De Gucht, Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, said "2009 has been one of the worst years in recent times for the people of the Gaza Strip."

"We must not forget that vulnerable communities in the West Bank are also struggling to survive because of the severe access restrictions and the fragmentation of their territory," he said.

"An urgent response is needed to assist communities affected by the separation barrier who have exhausted all their coping mechanisms."

The funding will complement 74.4 million euros already allocated in 2009 by the European Commission for relief assistance, which included emergency aid for conflict victims.

The money, intended to be spent on creating jobs and on food supplies, will be distributed through non-governmental organizations and UN agencies.

BRUSSELS, December 22 (RIA Novosti)