The Palestinians want to be regarded as a separate entity within the framework of a joint delegation.

The true way to peace is to hold negotiations with a joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation.

The final status of the territories would be decided in further talks between Israel and the joint delegation.

However, its officials have indicated that it would negotiate with a joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation.

According to some analysts in Amman, Jordan still wants a joint delegation.

The joint delegation might, however, be broken up into "sub-committees" to discuss specific topics.

"We will go even if Syria doesn't," said a spokesman for the joint delegation.

Israeli hard-liners have always found the idea of a joint delegation more palatable than a separate Palestinian group.

American officials say they are waiting for the Jordanians and Palestinians to agree on a joint delegation.

This joint delegation needs to set off without delay.