PACE calls on Hamas to renounce violence and on Kadima to resume a political dialogue – Council of Europe press release/Non-UN document

[11/04/06] The PACE today called on Hamas, the winner of the 25 January 2006 parliamentary elections, to renounce violence, to disarm and to recognise Israel’s right to exist. According to the parliamentarians, the newly appointed Palestinian Government also has to take a clear stand on the peace negotiations and respect previous agreements. At the same time, the result of the parliamentary elections held in Israel on 28 March 2006 creates a new chance to resume a political dialogue and this opportunity must not be wasted. According to the PACE, Kadima, the party which won the elections, and its partners in a future government have a great responsibility to seek a solution based on a bilateral agreement.