Hamas, Fatah to start reconciliation talks in Cairo next Monday

APD NEWS

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Islamic Hamas movement chief Ismail Haniyeh announced Tuesday that he will lead a senior delegation to Cairo next Monday for reconciliation talks with Fatah.

Haniyeh's announcement came during an interview with the Egyptian television at his office in Gaza.

"We are going to Cairo next Monday for dialogue on all issues and agreeing on all these issues will help the government spread its influence," said Haniyeh.

"Today we've turned the page of division forever," he noted.

Asked if Hamas is willing to drop arms in case a unity government is formed, Haniyeh said Hamas believes "there are two kinds of arms and guns."

"The guns of the police and security will remain under the control of the state and the political decision," he said.

But "as long as there is an occupation, it is our people's right to have their arms and resist the occupation," the Hamas chief noted.

"Hamas will pay any price for the success of reconciliation in order to reach peace with our brothers in Fatah movement and other factions to have a united and organized authority," he noted.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)