This article was originally published by Maan News and is republished with permission.

Dr. Hanan Ashrawi, a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council representing 'The Third Way' bloc, told the head of the UK opposition, David Cameron, in a meeting on Friday that the international blockade on the Palestinian government should be lifted so that the government can be truly tested on its actions.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert stressed to Cameron that Israel will boycott the Palestinian government if it does not meet all the Quartet's demands, particularly if it fails to recognise Israel's right to exist.

During her meeting with the UK parliamentary delegation representing the Conservative party, headed by its leader and candidate for the next prime minister, David Cameron, Dr. Ashrawi demanded that the siege be lifted once the Palestinian national unity government is in place so that it can carry out its duties to the Palestinian people.

She also appealed to the international community to continue supporting the Palestinian people so that they may continue building their state institutions. Ashrawi said that this is the only guarantee of continued accountability, transparency and reform. She also stressed the importance of the international community as a third party in the reconciliation process and in conflict resolution.

Ashrawi stressed the need to commence final status negotiations and urged against a return to the previous policy of interim stages. She also focused on the importance of freezing the Israeli settlement policy and stopping the construction of the illegal separation wall.

Ashrawi expressed her disappointment with the ruling Kadima party in Israel, headed by Israeli Prime Minister Olmert, who she said is concerned only about preserving his position and not progressing in the peace process between the Palestinians and Israel.

Olmert: Israel will boycott a Palestinian government that does not meet the Quartet's demands

On the other hand, on Thursday, Cameron met with Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. Olmert told Cameron that Israel will boycott any Palestinian government that fails to meet the conditions laid down by the international community, represented by the Quartet of the EU, UN, USA and Russia. Following Hamas' electoral victory in early 2006, the Quartet stipulated that any Palestinian government must recognise Israel's right to exist, renounce violence and abide by the previously signed peace agreements in order for the international blockade to be lifted. Olmert was particularly adamant that the new unity government must admit that Israel has the right to exist.

He added, "The Israeli boycott will include all the Palestinian ministers including those of the Fatah movement."

Olmert also expressed his fear that Hamas would enjoy increased power under the umbrella of the proposed national unity government. He reiterated his plea to the international community that it ensures that the unity government adheres to its conditions before it acknowledges this government.

Cameron was also scheduled to meet Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni, Vice Premier Shimon Peres and leader of Israel's opposition, Benjamin Netanyahu.