Erekat calls for resumption of peace talks

GAZA, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat Tuesday called for a new round of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.

He also urged the United States, United Nations, European Union and Russia to set up a mechanism and timetable for implementing any agreements under the so-called "roadmap" to peace.

Asked about Israeli reports saying that Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom had asked Tunis to host peace talks, Erekat said Israel "must be more specific."

"In order to immediately resume the talks, Israel should say where and when these talks would be resumed," said Erekat.

He also accused Israel of trying to undermine Egypt's effort to secure a cease-fire to "bring the peace process back on track."