[24/February/2008]

RAMULLAH, Feb. 24 (Saba)- President of Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas welcomed on Sunday initiative announced by President Ali Abdullah Saleh over Palestinian dialogue for settling the rift between the Palestinians and ending differences between Hamas and Fatah movements.

Spokesman of the Palestinian presidency stated to different media outlets on Sunday that this initiative reflects keenness of President Saleh on unity of Palestinians and ending the case of split and separation.

He confirmed that Abbas had affirmed a complete response to the initiative he described as truthful and brotherly from Saleh who is keen on the Palestinian unity and its issue and future.

Earlier, President Saleh suggested an initiative to President Abbas during his recent visit to Yemen aiming at coming out from Palestinian status quo and opening a dialogue between Hamas and Fatah movements.

The initiative included seven points aiming at restoring situations in Gaza as it was prior to June 13, 2007, holding early elections, resuming dialogue on the basis of Cairo Agreements 2005 and Mecca Accord in 2007, committing to Palestinian legislation, respecting Palestinian constitution and law, running the Palestinian institutions with no racial discrimination and re-building security apparatus on a national basis.

MS/AM

Saba