New Delhi: Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon on September 9 called on President A P J Abdul Kalam, who emphasised on the need to have a lasting peace in the Middle East.

During the 40-minute meeting, they discussed bilateral co-operation between the two countries and the situation in the Middle East, a Rashtrapati Bhavan spokesman said.

Among those present at the talks were secretary in the External Affairs Ministry, R M Abhayankar, and Indian Ambassador in Israel Raminder Singh Jassal.

Earlier, Sharon visited Rajghat, samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, where he placed a wreath.

PTI