Putin, Sharon Discuss Mideast TensionsRussian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon reportedly discussed the situation in the Mideast over the telephone Friday.During the conversation, which was initiated by Israel, Putin stressed the necessity of resolving the Israeli-Palestinian confrontation as soon as possible by resuming dialogue between the two sides, the presidential press service said. Sharon noted that the Israeli government would limit its actions against Palestinians "to the minimum necessary level." The two leaders also agreed to continue discussion on the issue as well as pressing issues on bilateral relations during Sharon's upcoming visit to Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov and U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan also held a phone conversation on the Mideast issue Thursday. During the talks, both sides expressed their "concern over the increasing acuteness of the crisis" and urged coordinated international efforts to resolve the confrontation, said a press release of the Russian foreign ministry. They shared the views that "the Mitchell Plan, which has gained universal recognition," is a good basis for such efforts. Meanwhile, Ivanov briefed Annan on Russia's efforts aimed at relieving the tension and restoring the peace process in the Mideast, the release said. |
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