Livni to French FM: Gilo Israeli consensus
France condemns construction in Jerusalem neighborhood; Opposition Chairwoman Tzipi Livni tells France's Kouchner there's no debate in Israel over status of Gilo, 'this understanding is important for talks about permanent borders'
Attila Somfalvi
Published: 11.18.09, 13:09 / Israel News
France is joining the US's position on construction in the Jerusalem neighborhood of Gilo. French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner on Wednesday condemned Israel's decision to authorize the construction of 900 housing units in the neighborhood and urged Israel to hold "face to face" talks with the Palestinians.
Opposition Chairwoman Tzipi Livni met with Kouchner in Jerusalem on Wednesday and told him that "there is Israeli consensus on the neighborhood of Gilo. Beyond dealing with the immediate issue, this understanding is important for all discussions about permanent borders."
Livni: Step up sanctions on Iran now.
On the Iranian issue Livni said a deadline for talks should be set: "It's time for harsh sanctions against Iran. Dialogue should also be within a timeframe."
