Egypt wants full Israeli withdrawal

Egypt's Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher held talks on Monday with his French counterpart Michel Barnier.

At a joint press conference after their talks, Maher said talks covered the excellent Egyptian-French relations and the developments in the Middle East region.

He said he underlined the importance of taking action to end violence and set up an independent Palestinian state in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions, the Arab peace initiative and the roadmap plan.

Maher urged rallying all efforts so that Gaza withdrawal project would be a first step on the road to reaching a comprehensive settlement.

He said Egypt is in constant contact with all sides concerned and the Palestinian Authority.

Maher added that talks with Barnier also covered the Iraqi issue and the importance that Iraqi people regain full sovereignty.

The situation in Sudan also was among the issues discussed with the French official, Maher said.

He underlined the importance of the Egyptian and European role in making sure that all agreements are being implemented.

Maher said he discussed with Barnier efforts exerted to find a political settlement to the situation in Darfur provinces.

Maher added there is an agreement in viewpoint that peace and reconciliation should be realized in all of Sudan.