Hassan and Arafat emphasize reviving peace negotiations

Jordan's Crown Prince Hassan held talks with Palestinian President Yasser Arafat during his short visit to the West Bank city of Ramallah yesterday to end a year long standstill in the Palestinian-Israeli peace talks.

"Recent political contacts including meetings with the Israeli officials aim at reviving the peace process," Crown Prince Hassan said.

Political efforts now focus on surmounting the deadlocks in the peace negotiations. The parley focused on initiatives expected to be put forth soon by the US and the EU to restart negotiations.

The US is currently calling for an Israeli withdrawal from 13% of the Palestinian territories. Palestinians have so far rejected the US proposal, while the Europeans have suggested a more radical initiative to break the deadlock .

"Hassan and Arafat agreed on the importance of taking the initiative in proposing a comprehensive solution which reflects Arab commitment to peace," a Jordanian spokesman said.

Arafat told the reporters "We face some difficulties regarding the implementation of what we agreed upon in the White House." Both Arafat and the Crown Prince warned that the peace process was heading to a critical stage , but said achievements made so far in it should also be highlighted instead of focusing on the lack of trust. "We reaffirm that we have achieved many things," Crown Prince Hassan said.

Crown Prince Hassan is due to hold talks in Israel today with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Recent talks between Israeli and Palestinian officials failed to bridge the gap between both sides. Palestinians believe that there is nothing wrong with the peace process, negotiations or the Oslo accord, but, "The wrong is with the practices of the government of Mr. Netanyahu," Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said.

"Arafat asked Jordan's Crown Prince for King's help and assistance in these difficult times, especially with the Israeli government," he added.