Sharon promises help for free, fair Palestinian election

"It is very important that it is clear to the whole world that Israel permits free, honest and efficient elections," Sharon said at the start of a cabinet meeting where ministers were expected to approve arrangements for the January 9 ballot in the occupied territories.

Sharon said the meeting would confirm an agreement reached between senior Israeli and Palestinian officials last week which will see the election held along the same framework as the only other presidential election in 1996.

"This election is of crucial importance for the emergence of a new (Palestinian) leadership that we hope will lead to the path of the roadmap," he added.