Labor refuses to join Likud in gov´t

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 02-24-2009 09:43

Israel's Prime Minister designate, Likud leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Labor Party leader, Ehud Barak, have ended coalition talks without reaching any agreement.

Israel's Likud party leader Benjamin Netanyahu (R) stands with Defence Minister Ehud Barak before their meeting in Jerusalem February 23, 2009.REUTERS/Ammar Awad

However, further talks about a unity government are still expected.

Barak has said he would not join a coalition government headed by Netanyahu.

Ehud Barak, Labor Party leader, said, "The verdict of the voters has sent the Labor Party to the opposition. We respect that call. I have told Mr Netanyahu that we will be a responsible, serious and constructive opposition."

Netanyahu said the door was still open.

Benjamin Netanyahu, Likud leader, said, "I am not going to give up on this, I want to try and make every possible effort to form a national unity government. I will meet again with Tzipi Livni and Ehud Barak."

Netanyahu said Israel's leaders should put politics aside and join his coalition for the good of the country.

Netanyahu was given 6 weeks to form his new Cabinet on Feburary 20th.

Late on Sunday night, Netanyahu and Kadima party leader, Tzipi Livni also held coalition discussions in Jerusalem. Netanyahu described the talks as positive.

Livni said they were negative. The two did not reach an agreement but said they would meet again soon.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei