GAZA, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas plans to meet U.S. President George Bush Wednesday in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
Abbas also is scheduled to talk with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice Monday, chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said Saturday, after Abbas met with U.S. Consul General Jack Wallace in Ramallah.
The formation of a new Palestinian government will not proceed until Abbas has returned from New York, said Erekat. Abbas is trying to gain Bush's approval before dissolving the government and appointing new ministers.
It is anticipated that Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh will retain his position.
EU ministers announced their support for a national unity government after meeting Friday in Brussels, although the U.S. has been more cautious. The Quartet - the EU, UN, U.S. and Russia -- has said Hamas must recognize Israel, renounce violence, and recognize previously signed agreements to be accepted by the international community.
"We will not mention the recognition of Israel, but we have sent good signals, enough for the world to understand that this government is not against negotiations and talks (with Israel) through the Palestinian Liberation Organization," said Hamas government spokesperson Ghazi Hamad.
