Egypt renews need for resumption of Israeli-Palestinian political negotiations

Egyptian foreign minister, Ahmed Maher, stressed on Tuesday the need to carry on efforts to resume political negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis.

A political agreement is the sole means to establish peace and security in the Middle East, Maher told reporters upon arrival in the Casablanca airport, adding that despite repeated violations by Israel of the cease-fire, decreed by Palestinian president Yasser Arafat, it is important to resume agreements reached between the two sides to respect the cease-fire.

In this aspect, he held Israel directly responsible for "opening each time the violence cycle" and insisted the USA, Europe and the international public opinion have a leading part to play to end the cycle.

To a question on a weapons cargo which Israel says was destined to the Palestinian authority, Maher explained too many questions remain unanswered given the confusion and doubts. Israel has been giving different versions, he said.