Palestinians, Israel to Announce Formal Cease-fire at Summit

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas meet for summit talks in Egypt on Tuesday that are expected to end in a formal cease-fire.

The Sharm al-Sheikh talks are hosted by Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and will also be attended by Jordan's King Abdullah.

On the eve of the summit, Palestinian Cabinet Minister Saeb Erekat and Israeli sources disclosed plans for the formal truce. Palestinian authorities have secured agreement from several key militant groups to stop attacking Israelis.

Also Monday, Israel re-opened the key Gaza crossing of Karni -- the latest confidence-building measure taken in the run-up to the summit.

President Bush says he is impressed by steps taken by both sides ahead of the summit.