Gaza, Shawwal 07, 1431/Sept 16, 2010, SPA -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met today with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. During the meeting, President Abbas said, "We welcome all efforts, particularly the efforts being exerted by U.S. administration and President Barack Obama to bring about peace in the Middle East." On her part, Hillary Clinton said: "We confirm that we are committed and determined to work to reach a peace agreement through direct negotiations leading to an independent, viable, and sovereign Palestinian state to achieve the aspirations of the Palestinian people." --SPA 14:26 LOCAL TIME 11:26 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/817587