Israeli-Syrian peace talks to resume in Turkey

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2008

JERUSALEM (AFP) — Israel and Syria will begin another round of indirect Turkish-mediated peace talks on Tuesday amid hints of progress but also complaints that Damascus is still arming Israeli arch-enemy Hezbollah.

Two advisers to Prime Minister Ehud Olmert -- Shalom Turjeman and Yoram Turbowitz -- will travel to Turkey for what will be the fourth round of talks, an Israeli official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"Israel's desire for peace is very serious," the official said. "That is why we expect that the process that has been begun will soon evolve into direct bilateral negotiations with a view to achieving significant results."

The talks started in May after an eight-year freeze, and the third round was held in early July.

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