MOSCOW. May 23 (Interfax) - With Russia's assistance, Palestinian groups Fatah and Hamas were able to agree upon a statement regarding problems in reaching intra-Palestinian unity.
Representatives from both Palestinian political movements were welcomed on Monday afternoon by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.
During their visit to Moscow, the representatives from the Palestinian organizations managed to agree upon a statement that will facilitate the implementation of the Cairo agreements, Lavrov said.
The reconciliation document between Fatah and the radical Hamas was signed in Cairo by PNA (Palestinian National Authority) leader Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas leader Khaled Mashal. The ceremony was also attended by the leaders of other Palestinian groups.
Fatah and Hamas have agreed to put an end to the long-term infighting and signed a draft reconciliation agreement.
Under the agreement, the parties are to form a Palestinian national-unity government. Also, a prime minister and a number of ministers will be appointed.
The main task of the government will consist in preparations for the election of the chairman and members of the Legislative Council [parliament] and members of the National Council.
The chairman will institute the Supreme Security Committee consisting of active officers.
Meanwhile, the Israeli authorities, which see Hamas as a terrorist group, have opposed the peace agreement between Fatah and Hamas.