JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli President Shimon Peres says Israel is ready to reach an agreement on Palestinian statehood, but first wants its security concerns addressed.
Peres spoke Friday after meeting with U.S. Mideast envoy George Mitchell, who is beginning four months of indirect talks between the sides to try to bridge vast differences on what a future Palestinian state should look like.
The president in Israel has a largely ceremonial role.
Mitchell also held talks Friday with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank. Abbas has agreed to indirect peace talks, but says he still requires the formal backing of PLO leaders who will meet Saturday.
The Palestinians refuse to enter direct negotiations unless Israel halts all settlement construction in east Jerusalem and the West Bank.
