RAMALLAH, May 18, 2017 (WAFA) – Minister of Finance Shukri Bishara said on Thursday that he met the day before with his Israeli counterpart Moshe Kahlon and that they discussed outstanding financial matters.

According to a statement by the finance ministry, the meeting was in line with what the two sides have agreed on to meet regularly “in order to resolve several financial matters in way that serves Palestinian interest.”

Bishara, said the statement, stressed that this meeting “came as a follow-up to the international donors meeting in which Bishara stressed the importance of Israel abiding by its agreements’ obligations.”

The two parties, said Bishara, “discussed several outstanding financial matters and Palestinian rights, particularly those related to accounting and missing clearance bills not received by the Palestinians and the money held by Israel that should be transferred to the Palestinian treasury.”

Bishara said that he discussed in the meeting opening al-Karamah (Allenby/King Hussein) bridge crossing with Jordan around the clock in order to facilitate movement of Palestinian travelers and put an end to the problems they face.

He also said it was important for the banks to continue working through the clearing house and not stop it.

The two officials also agreed to improve accounting and auditing and accuracy of providing the Palestinian side with accounting information, in a manner that ensures Palestinian interests.

M.K.