Annapolis: Peace by End of 2008

February 5, 2008

”We express our determination to bring an end to bloodshed, suffering, and decades of conflict between our peoples; to usher in a new era of peace, based on freedom, security, justice, dignity, respect, and mutual recognition; to propagate a culture of peace and nonviolence; to confront terrorism and incitement, whether committed by Palestinians or Israelis…We agree to immediately launch good-faith bilateral negotiations in order to conclude a peace treaty resolving all outstanding issues, including all core issues without exception, as specified in previous agreements…We agree to engage in vigorous, ongoing and continuous negotiations and shall make every effort to conclude an agreement before the end of 2008.”

The statement also said that the two sides agreed to the establishment of negotiation teams to address all issues with representatives from both sides. The first peace talks between the sides were scheduled to start December 12, 2007, to continue biweekly thereon.

“Today, Palestinians and Israelis each understand that helping the other to realize their aspirations is the key to realizing their own, and both require an independent, democratic, viable Palestinian state,” Bush said. “Such a state will provide Palestinians with the chance to lead lives of freedom, purpose, and dignity. And such a state will help provide Israelis with something they have been seeking for generations: to live in peace with their neighbors,” continued the president. “The task begun here in Annapolis will be difficult,” Bush acknowledged. “This is the beginning of the process, not the end of it.”

“First, the time is right because Palestinians and Israelis have leaders who are determined to achieve peace,” Bush said. “Second, the time is right because a battle is under way for the future of the Middle East, and we must not cede victory to the extremists. Third, the time is right because the world understands the urgency of supporting these negotiations.”

By Infolive.tv

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