Abbas: Unity with Hamas based on 'non-violence' and 'recognition of Israel'

According to a UN press realesd on Thursday, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry, was assured by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas that a new unity government with Hamas will be built on foundations commiting themselves to non-violence.

“President Abbas emphasized that these commitments include recognition of Israel, non-violence, and adherence to previous agreements. President Abbas also reiterated his continued commitment to peace negotiations and to non-violent popular protests," said Serry.

The statement also said that, “The Special Coordinator also underlined the importance for the parties, at this critical juncture, to refrain from measures that run counter to creating an environment for continued meaningful negotiations,"