The UN chief said in a statement that he believed the intention of the Palestinian leader as well as his pledge to fully embraces the so-called road map of the diplomatic Quartet were "two very important steps toward restarting the Middle East peace process."

"The secretary-general looks forward to working with a credible and fully empowered Palestinian prime minister," it said. "He believes it is now essential for the Palestinian Legislative Council to meet as soon as possible, so that Mr. Arafat can bring his nomination forward."

Annan also noted the importance of this move in advance of meetings in London next week between the parties and key members of the international community to discuss donor assistance and Palestinian reform.

The envoys from the Quartet -- which comprises the United Nations, the European Union, the Russian Federation and the United States -- will also meet during this set of meetings.

(Xinhua News Agency February 15, 2003)