Blair says Middle-East peace could happen quickly

Calcutta News.Net
Saturday 3rd May, 2008

Middle East peace negotiators have called for Israel to freeze all settlement activity and to dismantle outposts erected since March 2001.

The Quartet of negotiators comprising the United Nations, the US, the European Union and Russia, along with some Middle-East envoys, met in London on Friday to consider major improvements to living conditions in the Palestinian territories

The meeting also stated that Arab states should fulfil their roles in support of the peace process.

The full group reaffirmed its support for the goal of securing an agreement which would see the establishment of a Palestinian state by the end of the year.

The Quartet expressed its continuing concern over the closure of major Gaza crossing points given the impact on the Palestinian economy and daily life.

Negotiating chief, Tony Blair, declared a peace deal was possible "faster than people think".

Mr Blair said he also thought a breakthrough could be on the cards if there were to be an end to rocket attacks on Israel.

"This political negotiation can move forward better and faster than people think at the present time but it requires an enormous commitment and effort," he said.

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