Sources in Jerusalem characterized the atmosphere during Friday's meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas as "positive and good." The two leaders mostly discussed issues pertaining to the Road Map peace initiative.
During the meeting, PM Olmert made it clear that any progress in negotiations hinged on the Palestinians' ability and success in fighting terror – that is, implementation of the first phase of the Road Map.
'Good meeting' Friday. (Photo: Avi Ohayon, PMO)
Israeli officials noted that in recent weeks it appeared that the Palestinians failed to grasp the significance attached by Israel to adhering to the Road Map. However, as a result of the meeting, "the Road Map bug has been cleared and talks can continue," the officials said.
During Friday's meeting, Olmert stressed that the Road Map affects the entire process and any potential progress. Meanwhile, the Palestinian leader expressed concern over Israel's decision to designate the Gaza Strip as a "hostile entity" as well as the decision to cut off power in Gaza in response to Qassam rockets fired at Israel.
The Israeli PM made it clear that Israel is obligated to protect its citizens, but promised that the electricity supply to strategic and humanitarian facilities, such as hospitals, would not be cut off.
Following the talks, and in light of the understanding reached over the Road Map issue, negotiation teams will renew their talks after Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni returns from her trip to China.
Ali Waked contributed to the report
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