FACTBOX: Reaction to Israel-Syria talks

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Following are comments from regional and international figures after Israel and Syria said in surprise announcements on Wednesday they were conducting indirect peace talks with Turkish mediation.

MARIE OKABE, U.N. SPOKESWOMAN

"The Secretary-General (Ban Ki-moon) welcomes today's announcement confirming that Syria and Israel have started indirect peace talks, under the auspices of Turkey, aimed at a comprehensive peace in accordance with the Madrid Conference terms of reference for peace.

He commends President Assad and Prime Minister Olmert for taking this important step and thanks Prime Minister Erdogan for his efforts."

DANA PERINO, WHITE HOUSE SPOKESWOMAN

"The United States is not participating. This decision was undertaken by Israel, we were not surprised by it, and we do not object to it.

"We hope that this is a forum to address various concerns we all have with Syria -- Syria's support of terrorism, repression of its own people, and so we will see how this progresses."

DAVID WELCH, SENIOR US STATE DEPARTMENT OFFICIAL

"I think Turkey played a good and useful role in this regard. Israel and Turkey have apprised us in the past of these discussions and kept us informed."