MOSCOW, March 2, 2006, (WAFA) - The former Soviet President Michael Gorbachev called Thursday for respecting the Palestinian democratic choice in light of Hamas' wining in the second Palestinian Legislative elections.

In a forum held in Moscow, Gorbachev pointed out that most of the Palestinian people shared in the electoral process which was held in a democratic atmosphere and they voted for Hamas.

Believing in the difference between Hamas before and after the elections, Gorbachev said "there are major tasks ahead Hamas and it must find solutions for a number of problems".

"I don't agree with Hamas' decision not to recognize Israel yet I affirm the necessity of respecting the Palestinian people's well," Gorbachev added.

Gorbachev also strongly backed Russian President Vladimir Putin's invitation to Hamas to visit Moscow, saying that the move offers an opportunity to draw the it into the peace process.

"It offers a chance," Gorbachev said. "It must be supported by common efforts".

R.S (13:28 P) (11:28 GMT)