JERICHO, January 18, 2011 (WAFA) – Russian President Dmitry MedvedevTuesday called on Israel to freeze settlements in order to allow negotiations to resume.

President Mahmoud Abbas received Medvedev, who arrived from Jordan, to Jericho in what has been described as an historical visit, despite  all the obstacles placed in the way of the visit.

In a joint press conference, Abbas informed Medvedev of the continuous Israeli settlement activities in spite of the international efforts to stop it. Medvedev called for immediate settlement freeze and called on both parties to show maximum restraint and abide by international agreements.

The two leaders discussed Palestinian reconciliation process and Russia’s role in it.

Medvedev said that Russia continues to stand by and support a Palestinian state since it had recognized Palestine in 1988. 

Abbas and Medvedev inaugurated the Russian Museum in Jericho. Abbas said “it will revive the Russian presence in Holy Land.”

They signed cooperation agreements in sports, agriculture and information signed between WAFA and  the Russian “RIA Novosti.”

Abbas welcomed the Russian participation in peace process, and decorated Medvedev with the Star of Palestine.

R.Q.