Sources: Netanyahu to offer Livni 'full partnership' in gov't

[IndianaGreen]

Last update - 02:53 22/02/2009

Sources: Netanyahu to offer Livni 'full partnership' in gov't

By Mazal Mualem

Likud chairman Benjamin Netanyahu, who is forming Israel's next government, is expected to offer his Kadima counterpart Tzipi Livni "full partnership" in a future cabinet, according to sources involved with the negotiations.

The sources said Likud is also offering that Kadima join it in drafting the framework for the government's policies.

In a message that political analysts interpreted as designed to increase the trust between the parties, Netanyahu said he would suspend talks with other coalition partners - including the ultra-Orthodox and rightist parties - until after he concludes his talks with Livni.

Netanyahu's associates said he intends to offer Livni two of the government's most prominent portfolios, from among defense, finance and foreign relations. The associates described this as "unprecedented in its generosity."

Livni came under pressure from senior members of her own party over the weekend to agree to consider a unity government with Netanyahu, after President Shimon Peres tapped him to form the government.

Livni also came under harsh criticism from other party members for "leading Kadima into the opposition without even hearing Netanyahu's offer," as one official alleged.

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1065925.html

:popcorn: (keeping barf bag handy)

[Idealism]

1. I thought Livni made several statements saying no to forming a coalition with Likud leading?

[Scurrilous]

2. Netanyahu, Livni fail to reach coalition deal, but agree to meet again

<snip>

"Likud chief Benjamin Netanyahu and Kadima Chairwoman Tzipi Livni failed to come to agreement on various issues that would allow for the formation of a national unity government, though the two party heads did agree to meet again later this week following their sit-down in Jerusalem on Sunday.

Speaking last night to reporters after their first meeting since the February 10 election, Livni said there are still "profound differences" between the two parties' positions on the peace process and talks with the Palestinians. "I will be taking Kadima into the opposition," she said. "Netanyahu has asked for another meeting  and I agreed. As far as I am concerned, this meeting has changed nothing."

"In the coming days, I will make an effort to form a national unity government in light of the significant challenges the State of Israel faces," Netanyahu told reporters. "This is what is needed now and this is the nation's desire."

more


Barak reportedly lobbying Laborites to back joining Netanyahu-led coalition

<snip>

"Labor Party Chairman Ehud Barak is lobbying the faction's central committee members and activists for support for a possible entry into a government led by Likud chief Benjamin Netanyahu, Channel 10 reported on Sunday.

Barak's efforts come despite his statements indicating that Labor intends to remain in the opposition.

Barak has initiated a series of meetings and consultations aimed at determining what the response of central committee members would be if Labor were to join the next government.

Aides to Barak say most of the activists with whom they spoke expressed a willingness to take part in the ruling coalition provided that the party receive senior portfolios and that Netanyahu pledge to continue the diplomatic process."

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1066207.html