Palestine question – Russian MFA Information and Press Department commentary on conclusion of Inter-Palestinian Consultations in Cairo – Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry press release/Non-UN document

Unofficial translation from Russian

Russian MFA Information and Press Department Commentary Regarding a Media Question Concerning Conclusion of Inter-Palestinian Consultations in Cairo

519-18-03-2005

Question: How does the Foreign Ministry feel about the conclusion in Cairo of the talks between Palestinian parties and movements that discussed a possibility of truce with Israel?

Commentary: On March 17 consultations of leaders of Palestinian groups under the patronage of the Egyptian leadership concluded in Cairo, who in a joint statement agreed to abide by an obligation for tranquil in the localities in exchange for Israel's cessation of all hostile actions and release of Palestinian prisoners. The deal, welcomed by Israel, is of unlimited duration.

Moscow highly assesses the efforts by the Palestinian side, aimed at firming up the Palestinian-Israeli accords reached in Sharm El Sheikh on February 8. We note with satisfaction the positive disposition of all the Palestinian groups to constructively cooperate with the PNA leadership and support the cease-fire efforts in the region. Russia also welcomes the active mediatory role of Egypt in organizing the inter-Palestinian dialogue.

Of particular importance at the upcoming stage are the strict observance by all the parties of the obligations assumed, and reciprocal Palestinian and Israeli steps to strengthen mutual trust. This creates a favorable atmosphere for resuming a full-blooded political process on the road to achieving the final objective laid down in the Road Map – that of establishing a sovereign Palestinian state living in peace and security with Israel.

March 18, 2005