Peres with Chinese envoy
Photo: Yisrael Noi
Syria's Assad
Photo: AFP
No substitute for direct negotiations with Syria, Peres says
Newly elected president says talks should begin with meeting between countries’ leaders ‘to symbolize mutual recognition’
President Shimon Peres called on Thursday for direct negotiations between Israel and
Syria
during a meeting with special Chinese envoy to the Middle East Sun Bigan.
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"If Syria wants real peace, there's no substitute for direct negotiations, beginning with a meeting between the countries’ two leaders to symbolize mutual recognition," said Peres.
The envoy told Peres “the Chinese people consider you a trailblazer in the country’s relations with Israel. China is interested in strengthening the scientific and economic ties with Israel.”
The Israeli president said he would work toward establishing a special task force consisting of Israel and China’s leading physicians to develop and implement new technologies in the medical field.
Meanwhile, the Al-Watan newspaper reported that Turkey and Qatar have been mediating between Syria and Israel in an attempt to revive the peace process between the two neighboring countries.
On Sunday, the day of his inauguration, Peres caused a stir when he told AP that Israel should “get rid of the territories”.
