The two leaders discussed developments in the Middle East during a long and sincere exchange of opinions, emphasizing that the latest events – the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution #1397 and the beginning of the Israeli troops’ pullout from Palestine – encouraged a hope for further stabilisation.
Mr Putin said it was important to gradually move from the current situation to negotiations on the political resolution of the Palestinian problem.
Mr Putin and Mr Arafat exchanged opinions on practical ways of settling the conflict and on the possible international contribution to the peace process.