17 April 2004	Saturday	26 Safar 1425

RIYADH, April 16: Saudi Arabia called upon the United States on Friday to reconsider its backing for Israeli plans to retain parts of the occupied West Bank, saying the move would cripple peace efforts.

In a statement the Saudi government said: "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was surprised by the views and positions presented at the joint press conference between US President George Bush and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, because these positions, if solidified, will complicate the opportunities for peace and harm the peace process.

"Instead of building on past achievements, which include a number of resolutions and a series of agreements, the views and positions expressed at the press conference threaten to dilute these resolutions and negate previous agreements at a time when all expected positive developments to put the peace process back on track."