GAZA, Nov. 24 (Xinhuanet) -- The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) and Egypt have reached a deal on the joint operation of the Rafah crossing on the Gaza-Egypt border, Palestinian sources said on Thursday.

    The deal was inked on Wednesday between Egyptian officials and Palestinian Minister of Civilian Affairs Mohammed Dahlan who started a brief visit to Egypt on Tuesday, according to the sources.

    According to the agreement, Palestinians under 18 and above 40, students and diplomats will be permitted to enter Egypt via the Rafah crossing without visa.

    The agreement also stipulates that the crossing will be open around the clock.

    In addition, Palestinian and Egyptian customs officials will share information on fighting contraband and joint civil and security coordination centers will be set up to confront smuggle across the border, according to the agreement.

    The Rafah crossing is the only exit for Palestinians living in Gaza to travel abroad. It has been shut down since Israel withdrew from Gaza in September.

    The key terminal is due to be officially re-opened on Friday in the presence of the European Union security monitors in accordance with a US-brokered agreement between the Palestinians and Israel.Enditem