Israel and the Palestinians have disagreed over the final declaration of the Mediterranean summit held in Paris, France's foreign minister has said.

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There were difficulties with the use of the term "national and democratic state" to describe Israel, he said.

Earlier, Israel's leader said his country had never been closer to a peace deal with the Palestinians.

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke after talks on the sidelines of the summit with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.

Mr Abbas also said both sides were serious and wanted peace.

Leaders from 43 nations have launched the Union for the Mediterranean, which has put ending conflict in the Middle East as one of its main priorities.

(BBC)

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