Russia denies blocking Blair's candidacy for W Asia envoy

Moscow, June 28 (UNI) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov today denied reports that Russia initially blocked former British Prime Minister Tony Blair's candidacy for West Asia envoy.

''When this proposal was made, we said right way that if the West Asia Quartet backs it, we will back it too,'' Mr Lavrov said at the Belarusian State University in Minsk, where he is currently on a visit.

''Any doubts were in other capital cities, rather than here,'' Interfax news agency quoted him as saying.

Earlier, the Quartet which includes US, Russia, EU and the UN, said in a statement that Blair, who had been appointed its envoy, will facilitate efforts to end the conflict on the Palestinian territories.

''As special envoy, Tony Blair will bring continuity and intensity of focus to the work of the Quartet in support of the Palestinians, within the broader framework of the Quartet's efforts to promote an end to the conflict in conformity with the Roadmap,'' the statement said.

Yesterday, Mr Lavorv had said Russia will support Blair's nomination as special envoy of the Quartet, if it reflected the position of the Quartet members.

''If all Quartet members are in favour, then we will welcome Blair's input in the efforts to normalize the situation in the Palestinian territories,'' he told Russian journalists aboard an aeroplane from Tel Aviv to Minsk.

''Tony Blair will work in strict compliance with the established mandate. We have agreed the mandate of the special representative of the Quartet,'' Lavrov told Itar-Tass, adding ''Consultations of the Quartet will be held under his direction.'' UNI