BEIJING, Oct. 10 -- Israel's Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, has convened the cabinet ahead of further discussions with the Palestinians about Israel's withdrawal from settlements in the West Bank.

    The issue of the West Bank settlements is expected to be decided in a meeting scheduled for Tuesday between Palestinian leader, Mahmoud Abbas, and Israeli Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon.

    Israel's Vice Premier, Shimon Peres, says he hopes the meeting will further the peace process.

    "To further the peace process, what sort of arrangements can contribute to the conclusion of the Gaza exit?" Shimon Peres said.

    Palestinian leader, Mahmoud Abbas, says it is important that agreements are reached at the summit.

    "What is important is to be prepared for this summit and this summit should not be an "on the surface" summit. We don't need any more disappointed or frustrated Palestinians and Israelis," Abbas said.

    Israel completed a withdrawal from four Jewish settlements in the northern West Bank last month. Israel also completely evacuated from the Gaza Strip.

(Source: CRIENGLISH.com)