Kerry to Follow Up Obama Turkey-Israel Breakthrough

WASHINGTON (AP/Hamodia) —

Secretary of State John Kerry is traveling to Turkey and Israel this weekend to build on the two nations’ efforts to repair ties, U.S. and Turkish officials said Wednesday.

Kerry had planned to depart next week for meetings in London and then South Korea, China and Japan.

But he has moved up his departure to build on the rapprochement that President Barack Obama brokered between Turkey and Israel during his visit to the region two weeks ago, the officials said.

Kerry will also discuss regional concerns, including Syria and the Mideast peace process.

Kerry expects to also meet with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Jordan during his visit, The Jerusalem Post reported.

Kerry is believed to be seeking a formula based on confidence-building gestures that will lead Israelis and Palestinians to negotiate. Among the ideas being floated are Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners and a commitment from the Palestinians to put a hold on unilateral moves in international forums.

Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird is also scheduled to arrive for a three-day visit, part of a tour of the region, which includes stops in Qatar and Jordan.

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