Putin urges resumption of Mideast peace talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday called on the parties involved in the Middle East peace process to be moderate and exercise restraint, Russian news agencies reported.

"The situation in the Middle East demands the highest responsibility and restraint from all parties concerned," the president said at a press conference after talks with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

"The only way to overcome the circle of violence is to stop accusations from both sides, to release hostages and to resume peace talks," Putin said. "Only a just and universal settlement accepted by all nations will be secure and enduring."

Russia, as part of the Quartet of Middle East mediators, will keep on contributing to the swiftest stabilization of the situation and the resumption of talks, Putin said.

"The strengthening of Russian-Israeli relations not only is in the long-term interests of the two states, but also contributes to regional and international stability," Putin said.

"An aspiration to jointly counter challenges and threats of the 21st century, such as terrorism, extremism, ethnic hatred and local conflicts, unites our two countries," he said.

Olmert said the talks convinced him yet again of Putin's friendly attitude to Israel and his adherence to Israeli security.

Source: Xinhua