RAMALLAH, May 6, 2007, (WAFA)- President Mahmoud Abbas received Sunday South Africa's minister of intelligence, Ronnie Kasrils, in the Presidential HQ in Ramallah.

President briefed Kasrils about the latest developments in the Palestinian territory and the economic crisis the Palestinian people live as a result of the the international siege.

He also briefed the South African Minister about the exerted efforts for reviving the peace process in the region.

Deputy Director of the Palestinian Intelligence, General Toufiq Tirawi, who attended the meeting, said that President Abbas and the South African Minister discussed the issues of mutual cooperation.

He added that Minister Kasrils expressed support to the Palestinian National Authority.

Mr. Kasrils described the siege against the Palestinian people as a "big mistake" and a "collective punishment". He called on the US administration and the EU to end it.

The South African Minister asserted that the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territory must end, and called for launching serious negotiations on the final status negotiations.

He affirmed that the Palestinian partner (for peace) is exist, adding that the Israeli claim, against the late President Araft, on the absence of the Palestinian partner was a big mistake.

Ronnie Kasrils concluded by expressing the support of the South Africa to the Palestinian people, President Abbas and the national unity Government.

S.A.S. (14:45 P) (11:45 GMT)