Israel's Olmert sees possible concessions to Syria

Wed May 21, 2008 6:34pm BST

[-] Text [+]

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said talks announced on Wednesday with Syria were "exciting" but he warned Israelis they would be difficult and could ultimately mean making tough compromises for peace.

"The negotiations won't be easy ... and may last a long time and could ultimately involve difficult concessions," Olmert said in a speech in Tel Aviv that was aired live by broadcasters.

He did not spell out what concessions he might make but described himself as the latest in a line of Israeli leaders who were willing to consider Syria's demand for a return of the Golan Heights, which the Jewish state captured in a 1967 war.

"Three previous prime ministers ... made efforts in this track and were ready for painful and far-reaching concessions in order to achieve peace with Syria," Olmert said.

Darling to cut GDP forecast

Chancellor Alistair Darling will downgrade the 2009 economic outlook when he presents his pre-budget report next month but still point to growth resuming at the turn of the year. Full Article