Blair to promote peace in Mideast

The United Nations, United States, European Union and Russia today announced the appointment of Tony Blair as their representative in efforts to promote peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

A statement from the Quartet of Mideast peace mediators said the former prime minister will seek to mobilise international assistance to the Palestinians and develop plans to promote Palestinian economic development.

Blair will also seek international support to address the needs of Palestinian government institutions, “focusing as a matter of urgency on the rule of law,” said the statement.