Chairing a major regional conference in Moscow would be a strong boost in the Kremlin's efforts to present Russia as an authoritative and independent regional player.

Lavrov will visit Syria, Israel and the Palestinian Territories on March 19-21, the Foreign ministry spokesman Mikhail Kamynin said in a statement.

He said Russia was in consultations on the issue with the Palestinians, Israelis and members of the international quartet also including the United States, the United Nations and the European Union.

Lavrov's trip will follow a regional tour by U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, who will visit Saudi Arabia, Israel, the West Bank, Turkey and Oman this week.

Agencies

Güncelleme Tarihi: 11 Mart 2008, 18:23