Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul Gheit said in a statement today the success of the upcoming Israeli-Palestinian negotiations is contingent on cessation of Israeli settlement growth. The statement followed a meeting with UN Middle East envoy Robert Serry.
"The success of these efforts depends on whether or not Israel will take active steps to ensure the continuation of negotiations," said Abul Gheit. "Stopping the settlement activity within the occupied Palestinian territories, including Jerusalem, is at the forefront."
Abul Gheit also praised the Palestinian delegation's decision to partake in negotiations. That decision "demonstrates the desire of the Palestinians to positively respond to efforts made in an attempt to bring the two sides to an agreement," he said.
At the same time, Egypt considers Israeli engagement a testamant to the nation's sincere desire to reach an agreement with the Palestinians.
Together, Abul Gheit and Serry reviewed the latest developments in the Israeli-Palestinian situation, such as UN's efforts to revive the economy in the Gaza Strip, according to the statement.
Translated from Arabic Edition.
