Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
on indirect peace talks between Syria and Israel

The Secretary-General welcomes today's announcement confirming that Syria and Israel have started indirect peace talks, under the auspices of Turkey, aimed at a comprehensive peace in accordance with the Madrid Conference terms of reference for peace. He commends President Bashar Al-Assad and Prime Minister Ehud Olmert for taking this important step and thanks Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoðan for his efforts.