Clinton to light Christmas tree in Bethlehem

The heavy clashes between Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli troops next to thte Israeli army roadblock at the entrance to Bethlehem have failed to disrupt preparations to receive the US President, his wife and his daughter next week. The visit is seen as one of the most important events in the city's history.

Municipality workers were busy cleaning up streets and decorating the route the presidential motorcade will take. Bethlehem mayor Hanna Nasser said that works outside the church in the adjacent plaza might not be finished before the visit but noted that since the bulk of the visit will be inside the church "then things are, I hope, under control." Nasser said that President Clinton is due to light up the Christmas tree in the plaza facing the church.

Palestinian and US security officers were busy discussing all safety measures in the city to secure a quiet and safe visit for the President. US Army helicopters flew over Bethlehem in what appeared survey of the city's streets and buildings in the vicinity surrounding the Church of Nativity where the President and his entourage will hold their visit.