Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon hopes to talk with Palestine
Liberation Organization Chief Mahmoud Abbas after the Palestinian general
elections on January 9th.
Israeli newspaper Jerusalem Post reports Sharon wants to discuss with Abbas
on reforms of Palestinian National Authority. They may also talk about Israel's
disengagement plan if Abbas can stops militant attacks against Israel.
Meanwhile, U.S. President George W. Bush has contacted with his Egyptian
counterpart Mohammed Mubarak and saying the U.S. is committed to resuming the
Middle East peace process.
Mubarak also said Israel and Palestine should resume their peace talks after
the Palestinian elections.
In another development, Turkish Prime Minister Abdullah Gul said the
establishment of the Palestinian state is of great significance for regional
security and Turkey will support Palestinian National Authority's efforts to
achieve peace and democracy. Enditem