Sharon calls Abbas to arrange talks
Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon phoned newly elected Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas today – the first contact between the men since Abbas’ landslide victory in presidential elections.
Both men have expressed willingness since Sunday’s vote to restart peace efforts.
During the call, Sharon congratulated Abbas on his victory, Palestinian officials said.
Sharon, now with a government that should see through his Gaza withdrawal plan, today held the first meeting of his new coalition Cabinet that includes opposition Labour Party leader Shimon Peres.
Sharon said he planned to invites Abbas for talks “in the near future” which would focus on security-related issues.
Sharon had refused any contact with Abbas’ predecessor, Yasser Arafat.
A senior Defence Ministry official said Israel is ready to hand over security duties in West Bank cities to the Palestinians The official said discussions with the Palestinians on the matter would likely begin in the coming days.
Israel’s ceremonial president called Abbas today to congratulate him.
President Moshe Katsav also told Abbas that he hopes they can meet in the near future.
