Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday promised to consider ways of easing travel restrictions on Palestinian athletes, as IOC President Jacques Rogge invited sports officials of both sides to meet at its headquarters in Europe.
Rogge expressed concern over ''obstacles'' facing Palestinian athletes and urged Israel to grant them free movement. Palestinian officials say Israel routinely hinders the movement of athletes, particularly those from the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip.
Israel denies the accusations.
During a news conference in Tel Aviv on the final day of a four-day visit, Rogge invited representatives to meet at IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, to discuss cooperation.
''We will study ways of improving the traveling from one country to another and hopefully we will find a quick solution,'' Rogge said at the Olympic Committee of Israel headquarters.
''Palestinian athletes have difficulties in traveling, coming to participate in national matches or being allowed to travel from Gaza to Ramallah,'' Rogge said. It's just one example. There are obstacles. We understand that there are security measures to be respected and that is very important, but we have pleaded to have a relaxation or facilitating these travels.''
Earlier Thursday, Netanyahu spoke by phone with Rogge and promised to explore ways of easing the travel of Palestinian athletes. Israel says it does not target athletes specifically, but sometimes raises concerns about individuals.
Rogge also pledged support for Israeli athletes boycotted in international competitions.
''I have made it also very clear that the IOC will always support Israeli athletes who are prevented from participating in some international competitions,'' he said.
Rogge's Mideast visit included meetings with Palestinian and Israeli leaders and top sport officials. He also made a trip to Jordan to meet local Olympic officials.
''I have found also a great desire to promote sport but also to promote peace and this is something that is really very, very important to us,'' he said.
