Netanyahu and peace with Syria

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that a government under his chairmanship will reach a peace agreement with Syria or with Lebanon by the year 2000.

Israel Radio on Wednesday morning quoted Netanyahu as saying that Israel will resume negotiations with Syria if Damascus gives up its set conditions, including its demands of Israel's withdrawal from all parts of the Golan to the coast of Tabaraya lake. Netanyahu asserted that Israel will keep its vital interests in order to ensure its security and future.

Concerning negotiations with Lebanon, Netanyahu said Israel will be ready to negotiate with the government of Lebanon if Lebanon is able to ensure the security of the northern border of Israel and if the Lebanese Army can deploy in the area of south Lebanon.

Netanyahu made the remarks in a speech he delivered on Tuesday night in Ramat Ghan city in Israel that Israel is about to reach a peace agreement with Lebanon, Israel Radio added.