Maher holds talks with Solana

Egypt's FM Ahmed Maher held talks late Tuesday with EU Security Chief Javier Solana and EU peace Envoy Miguel Moratinos attending.

In statements following the meeting, Solana said he was keen to stop over in Egypt ahead of returning home due to the vital and important role Cairo plays.

He added that he would meet with President Hosni Mubarak on Wednesday to exchange viewpoints on the situation.

Asked about new ideas or initiatives, Solana voiced belief that there are new initiatives including some actions and visions of US State Secretary Colin Powell and US Mideast peace Envoy Anthony Zinni.

Solana said the European Union (EU) coordinate stances with the US, Russia, Egypt, Jordan and the UN in order to launch political dialogue.

Asked what to advise the Palestinian in their resistance against Israeli occupation, Solana noted that the Palestinians are mature people. He added that EU provides them with financial support and political backing, especially that Europe has been committed to the Mideast peace process.

Taking decisions is up to the Palestinians and the EU helps them when they need, Solana added.