Middle East tripPARIS, July 14, SPA -- A Palestinian official says Barack Obama willvisit the West Bank during a swing through the Middle Eastnext week, reported ap. Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat says the Democraticpresidential contender will travel to Ramallah on July 23. He says Obama is scheduled to meet Palestinian PresidentMahmoud Abbas. Erekat says the Palestinians «welcome this meeting.» Hesays if Obama is elected U.S. president, the Palestinianshope «he will stay the course between Israel and thePalestinians in reaching peace.» Obama's Republican opponent, John McCain, visited Israellast March but did not meet with the Palestinians. Obama is also expected to visit Israel. Erekat spokeMonday in Paris, where Abbas attended a summit the previousday.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/573673