Egyptian - Norwegian talks on peace process

A session of formal talks between Egypt and Norway was held yesterday at the headquarters of the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

The Egyptian side was chaired by Foreign Minister Amr Moussa, while the Norwegian side was chaired by Foreign Minister Knut Vollebaek, who arrived in Cairo earlier on yesterday evening.

Following the meeting, Moussa confirmed that there is a real and clear Syrian and Israeli desire to resume peace negotiations, in reply to questions asked by reporters at a press conference.

Moussa referred to the importance of the expected visit to the region paid by US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright on this point particularly, so as to fill the current gap.

Moussa added that in light of the desire of Syrians and Israelis to resume negotiations, "We should overcome the existing obstacles and confirm particular stances and limited guarantees."

Vollebaek hailed the vital role played by Egypt in pushing the peace process forward, saying that Egypt's role "calls on us for optimism," thus every concerned party greatly appreciates Egypt's role.

He added that during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak he noticed the intention of Barak to commit to the signed pacts and to find a solution to the stalemated peace process, adding, "I also noticed a great desire of Syria to resume negotiations with Israel," pointing out that the atmosphere has changed.