RAMALLAH, November 20, 2007 (WAFA)-President Mahmoud Abbas received on Tuesday in the Presidential HQ in Ramallah President of Liberia Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.

President briefed Sirleaf on the difficult Palestinian situation and the Cabinet efforts to upgrade security and economical issues.

Following the meeting, President said in a press conference that talks were focused on the intensive debates between us and Israelis as a prelude to Annapolis conference, adding that we exert utmost efforts to reach this conference in spite of some difficulties, hoping we could overcome them.

President Abbas added that Sirleaf's visit proves Liberian interest in the peace process in the region.

For her part, Sirleaf said this stage is very important for Palestine and the region and we come hear holding "a message for peace", adding that hoping Annapolis conference to maintain success.

"The Liberian people has suffered from conflict, so he prays for the sake of peace and for the Palestinians to achieve their goals. There should be a Palestinian and Israeli states living together side by side in peace," Sirleaf said.