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Following are Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s remarks at the start of his meeting this morning (Thursday), 11.11.04, with Italian Deputy Prime Minister Gianfranco Fini:
“We are pleased to welcome Italian Deputy Prime Minister Gianfranco Fini. Italy is one of the friendliest countries to Israel in the world. I hope that his visit will contribute to the continued strengthening of bilateral relations. I again welcome Italian Deputy Prime Minister Gianfranco Fini and ask him to pass our greetings on to Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.
Recent events are likely to constitute a turning point in Middle Eastern history. Israel, which is a peace-seeking country, will - of course - continue with its efforts to reach a diplomatic settlement with the Palestinians without delay. I hope that the new Palestinian leadership that will arise will understand that progress in relations and in the resolution of problems depends - first and foremost - on the cessation of terrorism and their fighting terrorism.
I hope that such things will indeed occur and that we will be able to move forward in our efforts to reach a diplomatic settlement.”
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