Two days of peace talks involving Israel and Syria concluded Monday and more talks were planned, officials said. An Israeli official said the negotiations held in Turkey covered practical matters.
Last month Israel, Turkey and Syria declared that indirect talks were in progress, with Turkish diplomats shuttling between the two sides.
The Israeli official, who is close to the talks, said the sides decided to hold two additional rounds with Turkish mediation. "The discussions were held in a positive and constructive atmosphere. The two sides reiterated their commitment to make progress in the talks and to meet on a regular basis," another official said shortly after the talks were concluded.
According to AFP, he added that the teams set dates to meet twice again in the coming weeks "within the same framework."
The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed that the talks were held Sunday and Monday and said dates were set for the further rounds, without disclosing them. According to the AP, the Turkish statement said the sides voiced their "common determination to press ahead with the talks and to continue to meet regularly."
© 2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
