LONDON, October 11, 2010 (WAFA)- British Foreign Secretary William Hague commends the leadership of President Abbas, urges further progress on direct negotiations.

 Foreign Secretary William Hague said: 'I spoke with President Abbas late last night (October 8) and was impressed by his resolve to return to direct negotiation if possible. I welcome the significant progress achieved by the Palestinians in recent years on their Road Map obligations with regard to security and institution building, including reducing violence against Israel substantially.

A freeze on settlement activity is now urgently important to enable talks to continue and achieve the real prize of a peace deal of a secure Israel living alongside a sovereign and viable Palestinian state. We must make progress before the window closes on a two state solution.

I commend President Abbas’ unwavering commitment to peace and the leadership he provides to the Palestinian people.'