Mitchell hopes for 'prompt resumption' of peace talks

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2009

WASHINGTON (AFP) — US Middle East envoy George Mitchell called on Tuesday for a "prompt resumption" of Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations.

Mitchell, speaking at his first press conference in Washington since his appointment in January, gave no time frame but hoped his preliminary discussions aimed at reviving the negotiations conclude in a matter of weeks.

"We all share an obligation to help create the conditions for the prompt resumption and the early conclusion of negotiations," Mitchell said.

"We are asking all parties to take meaningful steps," Mitchell said after four trips to the Middle East where he has met with the Israeli and Palestinian leaders as well as the leaders of other Arab countries.

"For the Israelis, that means a stop to settlements...