US State Department: Negotiations to resume January 19

US State Department spokesman James Robin on Monday said peace negotiations between Syria and Israel will resume on January 19.

Rubin said in a press conference at the conclusion of the second round is talks that the two parties will resume talks on January 19 and that the two delegations will leave for their countries. Rubin told the news conference that, "Prime Minister Barak and Foreign Minister Shara have agreed to return to the discussions and negotiations on January the 19th, to continue the negotiations and work further towards a peace agreement."

Rubin continued that during the talks in Shepherdstown, West Virigina, there had been "a seriousness of purpose and a clear commitment to achieving peace." He said the delegations were leaving on Monday.

President Clinton told reporters at the White House he felt "pretty good " about the prospects of eventual success. "I am still quite hopeful," the US president said.

He added, "These people really talked about the substance of their differences for the first time. They were very open, they covered all issues and I think that-- they broke a lot of ground."

He continued, "But it's tough. I told you it was tough at the beginning. I still think we can get there, but they are going to have to come back here determined to so, and I believe they will."