VATICAN CITY, MARCH 28, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The Holy See expressed its regret that the Israeli delegation will not attend the plenary meeting of the Permanent Bilateral Working Commission between the Holy See and the state of Israel.

The meeting was scheduled for Thursday, to consider questions associated with negotiations concerning the Fundamental Agreement signed in 1993.

The Vatican press office said: "On March 26, the Israeli delegation made known the impossibility of its participating in the meeting, due to the international political situation.

"The Holy See, while understanding the reasons, notes the circumstance with disappointment and hopes as soon as possible to be able to agree with the Israeli side a new date for calling the plenary."

Code: ZE07032807

Date: 2007-03-28