Obama asks Israel and Palestine to begin talks

“It is time to show the flexibility and common sense and sense of compromise that is necessary to achieve our goals,” Obama said.

Earlier,Obama met separately with Netanyahu and Abbas on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly and termed as “frank and productive” talks.

“Permanent status negotiations must begin and begin soon,” the President said.

Obama also asked both sides to send their negotiators to Washington next week for more discussions on relaunching the dialogue process.

“My message to these two leaders is clear. Despite all the obstacles,despite all the history,despite all the mistrust,we have to find a way forward,” he said.