SALVADOR, (BRAZIL), November 20, 2009 (WAFA)- President Mahmouud Abbas called Friday his Brazilian counterpart, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to play a greater role in international efforts in the Middle East peace.

Lula met with Abbas in the northeastern city of Salvador for two hours, and the pair discussed Middle East divisions and a way forward for the Palestinian territory.

In a joint press conference, Abbas said: 'We appreciate the efforts of Brazil.With respect to you, President Lula, we would like you to have a role, and you're ready for it,' adding that 'the world can benefit from' Brazil's influence in the region.

'The peace process will benefit from the contribution of other countries other than those traditionally involved' in negotiation efforts, Lula said.

'The expansion of West Bank settlements must be frozen. The borders of the future Palestinian state should be preserved, and freedom of movement needs to be guaranteed in the occupied territories,' said Lula.