U.S. President Barack Obama was encouraged by leaders’ seriousness at the Middle East peace direct talks held in Washington, the White House said on Thursday.

“The President was encouraged in his meetings yesterday by the very serious attitude that each of the leaders brought about these talks,” said White House spokesman Robert Gibbs.

U.S. Middle East special envoy George Mitchell said Thursday that Israel and the Palestinians have “long and productive” talks in their first direct contact over the past 20 months.

Both Israeli and Palestinian leaders agreed to meet again on Sept. 14-15 in the region, he said, adding that Clinton and himself will be present at the next meeting.