Amman  - The Jordanian government said Wednesday it hoped to see the formation of a new Israeli government committed to the Middle East peace process and prepared to enter into "serious and fruitful" negotiations with the Palestinians.

In the first official reaction to the outcome of the Israeli general elections, Jordanian Foreign Minister Salah Bashir said that any new Israeli government "should also commit itself to the cessation of settlement activity and stop Judaizing East Jerusalem".

Bashir added that Israel and the Palestinians should conduct peace talks with a view to "reaching a comprehensive agreement that handles all outstanding issues in the run-up for the two-state solution".

He also called for a political solution that ensures "the recognition of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and security for the Israelis". (dpa)