Updated

A top European Union official says the bloc stands ready to provide Israel and the Palestinians with massive political, economic and security support as part of any peace agreement between them.

European Council President Donald Tusk said Tuesday that the EU will "back up a peace deal with an unprecedented package of cooperation and support to both Israel and the future state of Palestine."

Tusk said after talks in Brussels with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin that "a lasting peace in the region remains a top priority" for the EU.

EU foreign ministers expressed determination on Monday to throw the bloc's weight behind Middle East peace moves and a possible international conference before the end of the year.

They invited EU agencies to present proposals "including on economic incentives, without delay."