Bush pledges support to Palestinian state: Summit with Abbas
By Our Correspondent
WASHINGTON, May 26: After a meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the White House on Thursday, President George Bush announced a $50million aid to the Palestinian Authority and reiterated support to the setting up of a Palestinian state.
Mr Bush also warned Israel not to expand settlements or take action that would hinder negotiations regarding the status of Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem, a reference to a barrier the Jewish state is building and its plans for its settlements on the West Bank. Israel must allow “meaningful linkages” between the West Bank and Gaza, he said, adding that “Israel has obligations to help”.
The assistance, announced at a press conference the two leaders addressed at the White House, would be used to fund housing and infrastructure projects in the Gaza area. Mr Bush praised Mr Abbas for seeking to root out corruption in the Palestinian Authority and reform the Palestinian security services.
“You have made a new start on a difficult journey, requiring courage and leadership each day. And we will take that journey together,” Mr Bush told Mr Abbas in the first visit of a Palestinian leader to the White House of his presidency.
Mr Abbas responded to Mr Bush’s pledge to support the Middle East peace process by declaring that he would adhere to the US-supported initiative. But, he warned, “Time is becoming our greatest enemy. We must end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict before it is too late.”
Mr Bush said the money would help Palestinians settle in Gaza once the Israeli withdrawal set for this summer is complete. Mr Bush said Arab states must also help the Palestinians fulfil their commitments under a US-sponsored peace plan through aid and by supporting efforts to dismantle terrorist organizations.
“We meet at a time when a great achievement of history is within reach: the creation of a peaceful, democratic Palestinian state,” Mr Bush said. Israel, Palestinians and other parties in the region must “move beyond old grievances,” he added.
Reiterating his “strong commitment” to the Middle East road map, Mr Abbas said Israel had “no justification” for building a barrier that cuts off Palestinians in the West Bank. Democracy cannot flourish under occupation,” he added.
Political analysts in Washington say that the promised aid to the Palestinians could anger some members of Congress opposed to providing direct financial assistance to the Palestinian Authority.
Mr Abbas questioned US lawmakers on their reluctance to provide assistance. He says his government needs to revive an ailing economy and rehabilitate his security forces.
“We asked for direct aid. We have a budget, we have a finance ministry, we have laws, and we have everything. There is no excuse for this money to come through non-governmental organizations,” Mr Abbas said.
The Palestinian leader also rejected speculations that he wants to delay the July elections until November.
WASHINGTON, May 26: After a meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the White House on Thursday, President George Bush announced a $50million aid to the Palestinian Authority and reiterated support to the setting up of a Palestinian state.
