Egypt follows up Israel's siege of Arafat, invasion of Palestinian areas
Egypt-Palestine, Politics, 4/2/2002

Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher said on the reported Israeli intention to deport the Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan, Maher said Egypt was against deporting Palestinians from their home regardless of their number, asserting that Jordan has also announced the same stance.

On reports that Egypt has not taken any punitive measures against Israel, Maher said there were many efforts and ideas, stressing that there is a responsible Egyptian government that is moving in accordance with what it sees achieving its national interests in, due time.

We are following up the situation to adopt stances in line with the aspired objective, that is terminating the Israeli occupation all Palestinian territories, not just area (A) said the foreign minister.

On the current US role in the peace process after the recent statements by US President George W. Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell and whether there is a more positive party that can sponsor peace in the region, Maher said the United States and Russia are the peace sponsors and "We expect them to shoulder their responsibilities in this respect.

Asked whether he views harbingers of hope at present to cool off the situation, Maher said through his contacts with European counterparts he viewed that they are disturbed by this situation.

We expect them to exert efforts and to reach outcome because this situation can never go on like this, he said.

On the Palestinian criticism of the current Arab stance, Maher said this criticism is heard from some irresponsible persons in some TV and Radio stations.

The Palestinian leadership under President Yasser Arafat assigned me today in a phone call to convey his thanks and appreciation of President Hosni Mubarak over the efforts exerted by Egypt to bring an end to the Israeli aggression, said Maher.

On whatever the Israeli decision -maker expects as far as the Egyptian and Arab stances towards this aggression are concerned, Maher said, "I don't know what Israel expects because it would be so hard for me to reach mentality of incessant aggression."

I cannot stand in their shoes because the way I think is normal, logical and reasonable and I act in accordance with well -known moral rules said Maher.

Previous Stories:
  Egypt contacts to secure Israel's withdrawal from Palestinian territories   (4/1/2002)
  Maher: Situation in territories very dangerous   (4/1/2002)
  Baz: if Israel seeks regional war it would be the loser   (4/1/2002)

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