JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli President Shimon Peres says his country has missed opportunities to forge a historic peace agreement with the Palestinians.

Peres told Haaretz daily Monday that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is “a worthy partner (who) can deliver the goods.”

He blamed the deadlock on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying he does not believe in negotiations.

Talks collapsed more than three years ago.

Netanyahu says he is ready to resume talks without preconditions. The Palestinians say they won’t negotiate while Israel continues building in areas they claim for a future state. Israel says that should be resolved through talks.

Peres said there is still a chance to strike a deal in the next few years.