Russian envoy calls for resumption of Middle East peace talks

Russian Middle East envoy Alexander Saltanov has called for resumption of Arab-Israeli peace talks. As he met in Beirut with Lebanese Foreign Minister Fauzi Salluh Alexander Saltanov said the current situation was favorable for the resumption of Middle East peace talks, which broke off at the end of 2008. For talks to continue Palestinians require Israel to stop settlement building completely, whereas Israel is prepared for temporary suspension only. During his Middle East tour Alexander Saltanov is also visiting Syria. He denied media reports that he will be discussing government make-up in Damascus.