British, French Leaders Discuss Middle East Situation on Phone

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Friday, April 05, 2002

British, French Leaders Discuss Middle East Situation on Phone

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British Prime Minister Tony Blair has called French President Jacques Chirac and Prime Minister Lionel Jospin on Friday to discuss the Middle East situation before Blair leaves for a meeting with United States President George W. Bush in Texas, announced the French presidency and government.

During the talks on phone, Chirac reiterated the position of France and applauded the U.S. re-engagement in efforts for peace following Bush's speech on Thursday, said Catherine Colonna, spokeswoman of the French presidency.

The U.S. made necessary and long-awaited efforts by demanding Israel to pull out its troops from Palestinian territories and urging both sides to immediately implement the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1402, said Chirac, quoted by his spokeswoman.

"France will continue doing all she can to contribute to peace in the Middle East," said Chirac.

On his part, Jospin reaffirmed his profound preoccupation and insisted on the necessity that Europe plays its full role in settling the crisis, according to a statement released by the French government.

Blair will pay a visit to the U.S. from April 5 to 7 during which he will meet Bush in Texas.

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