Jerusalem, Sept. 10: Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Monday pledged to release Palestinian prisoners ahead of the holy month of Ramzan.
Mr Olmert made the promise during his meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, where the two leaders decided to set up negotiating teams on key issues of disagreement like water, environment, energy and economic issues.
"Abu Mazen requested the release of prisoners and the Prime Minister promised he will recommend to his ministers to release prisoners back to the West Bank and Gaza as a gesture of goodwill for Ramzan," a senior Israel government official told reporters following the meeting. Both the leaders also committed to contribute to the success of an international West Asia peace conference. "Both leaders wish to contribute to the success of the international conference," Israel Radio quoted. (PTI)