Russia welcomes Fatah-Hamas vow to end internal violence

Russia welcomed on Friday an agreement between Palestinian movements Fatah and Hamas to take steps to end internal violence.

The agreement, reached by Fatah and Hamas officials during talks on Thursday, is "an inspiring move," Foreign Ministry spokesman Mikhail Kamynin said.

Clashes have broke out between the two rival movements after talks on the formation of a national unity government reached an impasse over Hamas' refusal to recognize Israel.

"Russia has always proceeded from the need to put an end to the Palestinian internal strife, which is harmful to the Palestinian people, their vital national interests and the Middle East peace process," Kamynin said.

He said Russia supports efforts by Fatah and Hamas leaders to improve the situation in the Palestinian territories. "It is very important that ... the understanding is definitely fulfilled," he added.

Russia is a member of the Quartet of international Middle East peace mediators.

Source: Xinhua