Merkel plays down difference over Blair Mideast role (Roundup)

Jun 28, 2007, 13:07 GMT

Berlin - German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Thursday played down differences over the way former British premier Tony Blair was chosen for his new role as an international Middle East peace envoy.

Merkel said he was the unanimous choice of the Quartet linking the European Union, United Nations, Russia and the United States, that is mediating in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Blair would deal directly with the Quartet, she said following talks with French Prime Minister Francois Fillon in Berlin. 'The political responsibility will remain as before on the shoulders of the Quartet,' she added.

On Wednesday, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier complained of a lack of consultation with members of the Quartet before the appointment was made.

Germany, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, is the EU's representative on the panel.

Blair held confidential discussions on the post with Washington, which formally recommended him without prior consultation with the other Quartet members, press reports said.

The UN announced his appointment on Wednesday evening, hours after Blair formally resigned as prime minister. Reports said the announcement was apparently delayed because of Russian reservations.

Merkel described Blair as a man of great political experience.

She said this experience and his political cooperation and direct contact with the Quartet could provide an important contribution to finding a solution to the Mideast conflict.

Analysts said Blair would have a narrow mandate that includes mobilising international assistance to the Palestinians and helping to develop their institutions and economy.

During his final prime minister's questions in parliament on Wednesday, Mr Blair told lawmakers that his 'absolute priority' would be to bring about a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.