Jospin says France will recognize Palestinian statehood on the proper date

French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin announced that both his country and European Union will recognize the Palestinian state at the proper time, saying that establishing this state is the right of the Palestinians, as statehood is the perfect way to achieve stability between the Palestinians and Israel.

In his declarations to Egyptian television Jospin added that the proclamation of Palestinian statehood cannot be delayed forever.

Jospin, moreover, said his discussions with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak were very useful, tackling different issues including Iraq, Kosovo and the Middle East peace process.

Concerning the crisis in the Balkans, Jospin said there is no problem between NATO and Russia; the only problem is between Serbs and other countries in the Balkans, feeling that they are threatened due to Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic's policies.

He added, "We are discussing with Russia a diplomatic outlet for the crisis, and we trust that the Russian officials will help us to reach a peaceful settlement."