By Jon Leyne BBC State Department correspondent in Whistler, Canada

Foreign ministers from eight of the world's most powerful countries have disagreed at a meeting in Whistler, Canada, over the way forward in the Middle East.

Following the meeting the chairman, Canadian Foreign Minister Bill Graham, said he did not believe the Middle East peace conference would now convene next month as had been expected.

Bush will make an announcement on the Middle East next week

The foreign ministers had intended to focus this meeting on measures to combat terrorism, but almost inevitably the Middle East grabbed much of the attention.

Once again it is clear the United States came under pressure to push ahead with political talks and steps towards the early recognition of a Palestinian state.

Asked about setting a timeline for the creation of such a state, the American Secretary of State, Colin Powell, said only that the idea was still being considered.

Policy differences

By contrast, both Javier Solana of the European Union and the Russian Foreign Minister, Igor Ivanov, said the idea would be helpful.

Back in Washington President Bush spoke about the evolution of a Palestinian state, suggesting he may be moving closer to supporting Mr Powell's idea of a provisional Palestinian state.

The president is now expected to outline his Middle East policy sometime next week.

Until then things remain very confused with domestic political pressure pulling him in one direction and most foreign allies, such as those represented here in Whistler pulling the other.