WH: mid east peace process in "embryonic stage"

(Paris) Contradicting a statement German Chancellor Angela Merkel made early Friday, the White House says she and the President did not discuss a timeframe for the middle east peace process because it's in an "embryonic stage."

"Specific timelines have not been established," said a senior administration official, "except to say that the president is obviously interested in moving this along rapidly."

At a news conference early Friday in Dresden, Germany, Ms. Merkel stated that she and the President had discussed such a time frame, but didn't give specifics.

The White House was eager to point that the President has noted in recent days that he has "delved into" dealing with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict more so than any other president, but that progress won't come over night.

"That reflects the degree of seriousness and the sense of urgency," of the administration's efforts, said an aide.

Mr. Obama arrived to Paris Friday evening where he will remain thru Sunday.