France supports Russia's invitation of Hamas

France on Friday expressed support for Russia's initiative to invite Hamas leaders to Moscow. A spokesman for the French Foreign Ministry said that although the invitation was offered by Russia without consulting the other members of the Quarter, the move did not contradict their values and goals regarding the Middle East. The French representative expressed his belief that talks between Russia and Hamas may serve to advance the Quartet's goals of establishing two nations [Israel and Palestine] living side-by-side in peace and security, Israel Radio reported.