MOSCOW, January 20, 2012 (WAFA) - President Mahmoud Abbas Friday informed his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev that the mayor of Jericho decided to name one of the most important streets in Jericho after him and handed him the naming certificate issued by the mayor.

Abbas told the Russian President, just before their meeting: “in a short while we will celebrate naming the street in Jericho after you.”

Medvedev thanked Abbas, saying: “I see in this a symbol of the Palestinian-Russian friendship, which we lived centuries ago, starting from the time of the Russian Empire, passing the Soviet period, and now prospering and developing.”

He congratulated Abbas on being awarded the Patriarch Alexy II, which he will receive in a large ceremony on Saturday.

Medvedev said that, “this award symbolizes the development of the Palestinian-Russian bilateral and friendly relations and the Palestinian contributions toward pushing it forward.”

He expressed hope to discuss all issues regarding the two countries’ bilateral relations, the Palestinian-Israeli compromise in addition to several regional issues of concern recently.

On his part, Abbas said, “I am honored to receive this award on behalf of Patriarch Alexy II and I consider it a medal of honor which encourages me to work more toward strengthening relations and cultural dialogue between peoples of the world.”

He added that he looks forward to always meeting with Medvedev, whether in Russia or in Palestine, “as we always said your visit to Palestine and to Jericho in particular had a special and very important character.”

Abbas said, “We thank the Russian government for its continued supportive positions in all fields and we always depend on your guidance and stances regarding the Palestinian-Israeli negotiations as well as regarding the national reconciliation.”

T.R./F.R.