Palestinians urge boycott of Israel's OECD debut

The Middle East conflict cast a shadow on Monday over Israel's first conference as a member of the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development, with Palestinians urging members to boycott the Jerusalem meeting.

Chief Palestinian peace negotiator Saeb Erekat said on Monday OECD members should "cancel their participation" in the October 20-22 annual conference to protest against Israeli occupation of east Jerusalem. The meeting's theme is tourism. Media reports say Spain, Britain and Turkey would not take part. A Palestinian official said Canada has also said it was not participating. (Reuters)