Sherif hails Egyptian-Qatar relations

President Mubarak's visit to Qatar falls within the framework of constant consultations and coordination with Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani on the latest developments in the Middle East peacemaking drive in light of the resumption of talks on the Syrian-Israeli track and Lebanon's anticipated participation within the coming few weeks as well as the situation in Sudan, Minister of Information Safwat Sherif said in interview with the Qatari news agency.

Sherif added that the two parties exchanged viewpoints and assessed the situation on the Arab arena in general.

The two sides shared identical views as to all issues, Sherif noted.

They underlined the need to realize a just and comprehensive peace based on respect for international legitimacy, UN Security Council's Resolutions 242 and 338, the land-for-peace principle and the Madrid Conference's groundwork.

Talks also touched on peace negotiations on the Palestinian Israeli track and the latest developments in Sudan, Sherif said.

According to Sherif, the two sides underscored the necessity of backing the legitimate leadership of Sudan.

The talks tackled promoting bilateral relations , said Sherif. He also underlined keenness of both leaders on promoting ties for the good of the two countries.

Asked whether Egypt supports holding an Arab Summit, Sherif stressed that Egypt has always been in favor of holding Arab summits, ruling out any Egyptian reservations.

Egypt backs holding an Arab summit whether on large or small scale provided that it is well-repaired in order to come up with desired results, stressed Sherif.

As for the latest developments in Sudan, Sherif described Egyptian- Sudanese relations as historic.

He underlined that the latest visit made by the Sudanese Minister of Defense to Egypt aimed only at keeping Mubarak posted on the latest developments in Sudan.