No conference before Israeli withdrawal
Egypt-Palestine, Politics, 4/18/2002

In a joint press conference in Cario yesterday with Marwan Mu'ashar Jordanian Foriegn Minister, foreign Minister Ahmed Maher said that Powell was told that there could be no talk about a peace process before the first step that is an immediate Israeli withdrawal from the re-occupied Palestinian territories.

Asked about the Egyptian and Jordanian stances over a peace conference proposed by Israeli Premier Ariel Sharon, Maher reiterated Muashar's demand for an immediate Israeli pullout first.

He added that such a conference should be held in line with the international terms of reference.

Maher urged an effective international participation of European countries, Russia and the UN without compromising the legal status of Palestinian President Yasser Arafat.

Muashar slammed the Israeli idea of excluding Syria and Lebanon as no conference can be held unless all parties concerned are represented.

"Resistance is the other side of the occupation coin", said Maher.

"The resistance will continue as long as there is an Israeli occupation and violence against the Palestinian people."

Asked about setting up an international fact-finding panel into the Jenin massacre, Maher said the Jenin tragedy was addressed during his meeting with Powell who showed understanding.

He added that more US concern of this tragedy may come up during the coming few days.

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak talked with Powell over the phone for certain circumstances, said Maher.

He voiced Egypt's dissatisfaction with Israel's failure to pull out.

Maher stressed that Powell did not convey any Israeli demands.

"Israeli demands are well-known and they violate legitimacy, logic, right, justice and can not be accepted," said Maher.

Maher described Israel's stances as "very contradictory".

He added that there is awareness in the US, despite demonstrations made to support Israel that "Israel has gone far beyond limits.

Asked if Powell has failed in his mission, Mu'ashar said it is too early to say he failed but he has not scored success yet.

"Israel seeks to undermine any efforts being exerted in good faith to solve the issue but it did not work," said Maher.

On the regional peace conference, Maher said there is no talking about a conference except after Israel immediately withdraws from Palestinian territories.

Maher said there should be no skepticism that Yasser Arafat is the legitimate representative and the elected President of the Palestinian people.

Previous Stories:
  Maher pursues contacts on situation in Middle East   (4/17/2002)
  Egypt's stance is effective and influential   (4/16/2002)
  Arafat- Powell meeting positive   (4/15/2002)

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