Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today met with Riad Malki, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Palestinian Authority, and issued the following statement:

“Minister Malki and I held cordial and constructive talks today in the West Bank, discussing key regional issues, as well as the Middle East Peace Process.

“As friends, we have candid and frank exchanges on areas where we differ in opinion. I appreciate the Minister’s views and counsel, and I know we share the same desire for peace and prosperity for the Palestinian people.

“I asked that the Minister strongly reconsider the consequences of moving forward with any action that may be counterproductive to a negotiated solution with the State of Israel.

“A desire for a future of peace, prosperity, stability and security for both Palestinians and Israelis must drive both parties toward direct negotiations.

“Today, we reaffirmed our will to work together on these matters at this crucial time.”