Palestinians ready to extend talks with Israel
The chief Palestinian peace negotiator says the Palestinians are ready to extend the current talks with Israel beyond an April deadline – if there is a framework agreement in place. The comments by Saeb Erekat mark the first time the Palestinians have endorsed the US idea of seeking a preliminary – not final – peace deal.
Under US-pressure, Israel and the Palestinians resumed negotiations last summer, agreeing to talk for nine months with the goal of a permanent peace agreement. With little progress so far, the Americans are now setting their sights on a preliminary deal. (AP)
