Comment of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia S.V. Lavrov for mass media regarding results of meeting with Head of Palestinian national administration M. Abbas, Amman, November 6, 2012

Unofficial translation from English

Russia has no doubt in Palestine's statehood. We recognized Palestinian state when it was proclaimed in year 1988. Complete Palestinian embassy exists in Moscow.

I think, it is very important that President M. Abbas once again firmly professed his readiness for recommencement of direct talks with Israel for the purpose of discussion of all questions regarding final status in accordance with present international legal framework. We plump for such a course of action.

Russia also supports efforts in restoration of Palestinian unity. We are glad that our positions are the same in the point that reaching of such unity should be based on Palestine Liberation Organization and Arab Peace Initiative. I think that this is affirmative approach.

I am satisfied with the negotiations with President M. Abbas, which took place today in fiduciary and substantial nature and were exceptionally useful.