United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon on Wednesday called on Israel and the Palestinians to create a positive atmosphere to resume their direct peace negotiations.

Ban told reporters after a meeting with the Palestinian president in the West Bank city of Ramallah that the two sides must stop provocative acts and try to build confidence.

The UN chief also expressed his belief that "it is time to establish the vital state of Palestine" and that "the two-state solution "can be achieved."

He went on to stress the road to such a solution is through talks that would resolve issues regarding borders, security, refugees and Jerusalem.

Ban also expressed his appreciation for the recent exploratory talks between Israel and the Palestinians held in the Jordanian capital of Amman and encourage the two sides to keep on the efforts.

The chief reiterated the UN position concerning the Israeli settlement activities, saying that they violate the international laws and negatively influence the final status talks.

Meanwhile, President Mahmoud Abbas said the Palestinian leadership "doesn't" wish to suspend their negotiations with Israel but the latter "hasn't presented or offered any encouraging proposals" in the Amman talks.

Abbas revealed that the Arab League Follow up committee is to convene soon to study the needed steps with respect to the peace talks.

Speaking of future choices, Abbas affirmed renewed efforts in the Palestinian UN membership bid.