The government announced today that its recent talks here with Egyptian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Riad had enabled it to conclude that “all obstacles to peace in the Mideast can and must be eliminated.” Government spokesman Lee Hamon, speaking to newsmen after the government’s regular weekly session, explained that a concrete plan for a Middle East settlement had been discussed by the French leaders and the Egyptian Deputy Premier. That was apparently the plan, disclosed today by the Arab Socialist Union paper, Al Gomhouria. (See story Page 1.) Al Gomhouria said Riad found France in full agreement with the plan. Hamon said France continues to believe that an extension of the cease-fire beyond Feb. 5 is of the utmost importance. But he added that full security for all the Mideast parties must be assured. Diplomatic circles here expressed surprise at the government’s consideration of an Egyptian peace plan without first consulting with Israel on it. The circles said today’s announcement seemed to indicate that the government was ready to endorse the hardline position of Egypt.
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