A new document aimed at reaching a consensus on the Middle East and saving the world conference against racism in South Africa was presented to delegates early today.
The document was presented by the South African Foreign Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.
One delegate earlier described the document as "a very problematic paper. It is still very controversial but we will wait and see".
But Mr John Rowan, a member of the Irish delegation, told ireland.com: "It is a very good basis for negotiation. We have to see the reaction particularly from the Arab side. It has been a very helpful paper from the presidency of the conference".
He also said the EU is not withdrawing from talks contrary to reports yesterday. "We don't think that withdrawal is a constructive approach. We would like to negotiate to the end. Our EU partners as far as I know are in the same view".
A conference spokeswoman said: "The contentious issues will be put to vote by delegates if there is no agreement by the close of conference tomorrow".
Delegates have already started leaving the conference, which ends tomorrow.