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PM SHARON'S STATEMENT AT BEN-GURION AIRPORT ON HIS DEPARTURE TO WASHINGTON |
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| 18/03/2001 |
I was invited by President Bush to conduct a working visit in
Washington. I am going on this visit with the purpose of strengthening
the special relationship between Israel and the U.S., and to present the
President and his Administration the assessments and positions of the
Government I head, regarding the situation in the Middle East, our
relationships with our neighbors, and the future of the peace process.
Between Israel and the US there exists a deep friendship - between our
peoples and countries. The basis of this friendship are common values,
a commitment to democratic values, freedom, peace, and common interests,
including the drive towards regional stability and preventing terrorism
and violence.
At the center of the meeting and the discussions I will participate in - alongside with the regional issues - are bilateral issues. During the visit I will meet with the leaders of Congress and Jewish Organizations, with an eye towards bolstering our relationship and the joint cooperation between us.
Citizens of Israel:
All of Israel is united in our efforts for security and peace. The
National Unity Government we established expresses this unity. The
Jewish nation is a peace-loving nation. We believe and are committed to
the principle of resolving conflicts and disputes peacefully through
negotiations, a principle that is the foundation for the entire peace
process, that will allow the sides to advance on the road towards
attaining that sought-after peace.
I embark on this special mission with a feeling of responsibility - the
responsibility that the citizens of Israel placed upon me, and who want
to live in peace and security here in their ancient homeland.
It is my deep recognition that Israel and its citizens have the basic
right, which is the right of any people, to live in security and peace.
I will be well aware of this recognition during this visit.
Thank you and so long.
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