Abbas sees role for South Africa in peace process

Johannesburg, Apr 1: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said today he believed South Africa could play a productive role in the peace process with Israel.

''I know that they (South Africa) have a good relationship with all the parties ... with the Israelis, with the Palestinians and the United States,'' Abbas said after meeting former president Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg.

''I think that they can play a productive role in the peace process,'' Abbas added.

South Africa's ruling ANC, whose ties with the Palestinians date back to decades in exile, has been a vocal supporter of their cause. The party has also been keen to share its experiences in averting conflict through dialogue on the continent and abroad.

Abbas's visit to South Africa precedes a visit by a top-level delegation from Pretoria to the Palestinian territories next week to meet with the Hamas-led government.

REUTERS