Palestinian groups conclude talks in Cairo

CAIRO, Egypt (AA) - Palestinian groups concluded two days of talks in Cairo and agreed to ease obstacles ahead of parliamentary elections.

The groups, including rivals Fatah and Hamas, stressed Palestinian "territorial integrity politically and legally," in regards to conducting elections in the West Bank, Gaza and Jerusalem.

"The participants confirmed on completing the formation of the Palestinian unified leadership on popular resistance and activating it based on the last meeting of the secretaries-general [of the Palestinian groups]," the statement said.

It said the heads of the groups are in a continuous session to follow the elections and have a commitment toward ensuring transparent and fair polls.

The groups reviewed ways to strengthen national partnerships and discussed dangers surrounding the Palestinian cause, the statement said.

It added that participants discussed the formation of the national council as part of activating the Palestine Liberation Organization.

Palestinians are scheduled to vote in legislative elections on May 22 and in a presidential poll on July 31. Elections for the Palestinian National Council will be held on Aug. 31.

*Ahmed Asmar contributed to this report from Ankara