Egypt condemns innocents-targeting violence
Egypt-Palestine, Politics, 12/3/2001

Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher said Egypt's principled, unshakable stand condemns acts of violence that target innocent people.

Commenting on the blasts that took place Saturday in west Jerusalem, Maher said Egypt denounces yesterday's blasts in which a number of innocent civilians were killed, offering condolences over the victims.

"I express regret over these blasts and offer my condolences, but I can't help thinking about the innocent Palestinian victims killed as a result of acts and practices that must grind to a halt," said Maher.

He voiced hope that this spiral of violence would come to an end so that both parties would benefit from the current exerted efforts to set the stage for resumption of negotiations and reach a final settlement based on international legitimacy resolutions and the land for peace principle.

Maher further hoped that both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples would live side by side in two independent sovereign states enjoying security, safety and welfare.

"Egypt expects that Israel would abandon its provocative policies and practices, which do not help attain this objective guaranteeing security for both peoples and stability for the region," he said.

Maher asserted that the only way to end violence in the Middle East is the establishment of the Palestinian State to live in peace, cooperation and security with Israel.

On the chances available for the United States to help Palestinians and Israelis return to the negotiations tab especially with US peace envoy Anthony Zinni currently in the region, Maher told the CNN that there are some people on both sides who are interested in continuing the acts of violence as to foil the US peace efforts.

He asserted that the only answer to those people is to go ahead with the peace process regardless of violence.

"The two sides should return to the negotiations table, iron out an agreement, condemn violence and confront it," said Egypt top diplomat.

On Palestinian President Yasser Arafat's stance as regards what is going on, Maher stressed that Arafat is the legitimate and elected President of the Palestinian people and that he able to control things.

"There are few elements out of control and unfortunately these elements are encouraged by Israel to weaken President Arafat," said the Egyptian foreign minister.

"These things slim Arafat's ability to have full control o those who want him to distance himself from the peace process" said Maher.

The Israeli side should realise these facts and it is necessary for the Palestinians to realise that they should continue the peacemaking drive, he said, recalling import decisions taken by Arafat in this regard.

Maher expressed confidence that Arafat will enforce decisions he made unless there are attempts to undermine ability to lead his people.

Previous Stories:
  Three points conducive to settle Palestinian question   (12/1/2001)
  Egypt presents draft to UNGA on Palestinians' right to their natural resources   (11/30/2001)
  Egypt committed to work for peace achievement   (11/27/2001)

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