RAMALLAH, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and George Mitchell, the U.S. peace envoy to the Middle Eastheld on Friday talks in Ramallah and discussed the stalled peace process.

    "We discussed our common vision of a viable and independent Palestinian state with contiguous territory, President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton are deeply committed to that," Mitchell told reporters after the meeting.

    Mitchell's statement was made in a joint news conference in Ramallah with chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat.

    Erekat told reporters that President Abbas reiterated to Mitchell on the Palestinian stance that Israel should be committed to the Roadmap plan for peace in the Middle East.

    "If Israel wants to resume the peace talks, it should first express clear commitment to implementing the roadmap plan, which includes stopping settlement and be committed to the two-sate solution," said Erekat.

    Mitchell held earlier talks on Friday with hawkish Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. Netanyahu office said in a statement after the meeting that it was constructive and would help the peace process.

    Mitchell meeting with Abbas in Ramallah is the third of its kind. Mitchell is trying to bridge the gaps between Israel and the Palestinians by finding a compromise of halting Israeli settlement in the Palestinian territories.

    "They (Obama and Hilary Clinton) have made our policy clear, the only realistic solution to this conflict is for the aspiration of both sides to be met through two states living side by side in peace and security," said Mitchell.

    He added that U.S looks forward to see "Palestinians and Israelis live with stability and prosperity alike." He didn't say if he has achieved any deal with Netanyahu on freezing settlement in the West Bank.

    "Earlier today, in his public comments, President Obama specifically reaffirmed his commitment to that objective, we do not underestimate the difficulties, for us or for the parties," said Mitchell.

    He said that "this will be good for the Palestinians, good for Israelis, and good for all of the people of this region," said Mitchell, adding "it's in the interest of the United States as well."

    The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) insists that it would only resume the peace negotiations if Israel halts settlement, including the natural growth and recognize the two-state solution.

    "We all have an obligation to do all what we can to help achieve the goal of the comprehensive peace in the Middle East," said Mitchell.

    Erekat has meanwhile said "this region doesn't need more wars, and the one who seeks for peace should compel Israel to end the occupation of the Palestinian territories, which began in 1967."

    "This is the key for peace and security in the region. There is no danger on the region except the continuation of the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories,' said Erekat.

    Erekat also said that President Abbas briefed Mitchell on the recent Israeli security measures against al-Aqsa Mosque in the old city of Jerusalem, mainly preventing Moslem prayers from reaching the mosque."

    Mitchell arrived in Israel on Wednesday night, where he held talks with Israeli defense Minister Ehud Barak on Thursday and with Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu and President Abbas on Friday.