It's good to have the weekend to relax, enjoy the company of good friends, and talk about everything they have in common:

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas held a long-overdue summit Saturday, reviving hopes that peace talks can resume after years of fighting, hostility and distrust.

Israeli officials say agreement reached on some issues in Olmert-Abbas summit, but no deal on releasing Palestinian prisoners.

The meeting, announced just hours before it began, marked the first substantial talks between Israeli and Palestinian leaders in 22 months. It comes at a time when both men are facing serious political problems at home and stand to gain domestic support with a peace breakthrough.

Olmert emerged from his official residence in Jerusalem to greet Abbas.The two shook hands and also kissed each other on the cheek. Abbas as then introduced to Olmert's wife Aliza, an artist known for her dovish views. The two leaders took seats opposite one another at a long table, set for a meal and covered by white cloth. Israeli and Palestinian flags served as table decorations.

I hope that the meeting went well. However, until Abbas proves that he can deliver any kind of cessation of hostilities, this is nothing more than a weekend barbecue.

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