Middle East leaders optimistic over European peace summit
Updated
The Israeli and Palestinian leaders have expressed their optimism over the chances for peace at a summit of European and Mediterranean rim nations in the French capital Paris.
Leaders from 43 nations are meeting in Paris to launch a regional union, tackling issues including unrest, immigration and pollution.
The host of summit, the French President Nicolas Sarkozy, says the role of Europe is to help achieve peace through economic development, political initiatives and providing guarantees for all stakeholders.
In response, the Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said they had never been so close to an agreement with the Palestinians as they are today, but he gave no further details.
Mr Olmert also said that he would like direct talks with Syria, but warned they must not hinder talks with the Palestinians.
