Israel president welcomes Brazil to peace talks

Visiting Israeli President Shimon Peres has praised Brazil for its efforts in mediating peace negotiations in the Middle East. He said Israel's stance towards the Palestinians is to return land in exchange for security guarantees.

After his meeting with his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Incio Lula da Silva on Wednesday, Peres says it was a great pleasure to receive the Brazilian contribution to the peace process. He also confirms there will be no new settlements and no land confiscation from Palestinians. The Brazilian government stated on several occasions they will to mediate peace negotiations in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, Brazil confirms the President of the Palestinian National Authority Mahmoud Abbas will also pay an official visit to Brazil on November 20th.

Israel's President Shimon Peres (L) smiles at Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva after a meeting in Brasilia November 11, 2009.REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes