`Good start' to Israel, Syria talks

WASHINGTON - Israeli and Syrian negotiators ended three days of US mediated talks in Maryland yesterday, saying they had made…

WASHINGTON - Israeli and Syrian negotiators ended three days of US mediated talks in Maryland yesterday, saying they had made a "good start" towards progress on key issues.

The US special Middle East envoy, Mr Dennis Ross, said: "All three delegations believe that the discussions were fruitful, constructive and practical ... A good start was made in developing a general basis for progress".

Syria's chief negotiator said yesterday's peace talks with Israel showed progress could be made despite some difficulties separating them.