RAMALLAH, November 17, 2008 (WAFA)- President Mahmoud Abbas said, Monday that Israel had decided to release 250 Palestinian prisoners before Al-Adha Holiday and affirmed the necessity of a continued ceasefire between The Gaza Strip and Israel, to help ease the suffering of Palestinian citizens in Gaza Strip.

In a joint Press Conference with the British Minister of Foreign Affairs, David Miliband President Abbas stated that, “no partial agreements are to be accepted. The only agreement to be made is a comprehensive peace deal that includes the six issues on the agenda which are; Jerusalem, water issues, releasing all prisoners, demolishing colonies, setting borders, refugees issue and security.”

He added that the Path of Peace between the Palestinians and the Israelis does not oppose the Palestinian national path.

On his side, David Miliband said that he was pleased to renew conversations with President Abbas in search of an Independent Viable Palestinian State.

He stated that the life of Palestinians in West Bank and in Gaza is of great importance in terms of peace talks, seeking for a final settlement between the Israelis and the Palestinians.  He stated, “the ceasefire is very vital and is contributing to the talks in a very constructive manner.

Mr. Miliband reiterated what has been said in the Quartet meeting in Egypt, that what is to be said in negotiations is irreversible. He expressed the UK’s concern about the commitment to the Road Map, including colonies’ demolition.

He said that comprehensive peace is important for the Middle East as a whole, stressing that the partnership between President Abbas and Gordon Brown was a very strong, constructive one that has taken forward, and enforced President Abbas drive towards peace.

He expected that 2009 is going to be a very important year, especially with the formation of the new American Administration, the new Israeli Government, and the ongoing efforts exerted by President Abbas.

Mr. Miliband finally stated that the Two-State solution is the only solution that brings justice for the Palestinians and security for Israelis. He stressed that Israel has a commitment under the Road Map to demolish all colonies and to establish a Palestinian state on the borders of 1967.