Colin L. Powell On Middle East Peace Initiatives

Colin L. Powell On Middle East Peace Initiatives

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release

May 28, 2002

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY OF STATE COLIN L. POWELL

Travel of Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Bill Burns

Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Bill Burns departed for the Middle East region today and Director of Central Intelligence George Tenet will travel as well at the end of the week. They will discuss how best to move ahead on the President's integrated three-part strategy:

1) Establishing effective Palestinian security performance;

2) Renewing a serious political process that aims at a two-state solution, and brings hope to Palestinians and Israelis alike;

3) Building strong, responsible Palestinian Authority institutions in preparation for statehood.

Director of Central Intelligence George Tenet will consult on developing a workplan for security issues. Assistant Secretary Burns will consult on how best to support serious efforts on the institution- building and political tracks. Both will return to Washington for further review prior to President's Mubarak's visit next week.

We have no illusions about the difficulties ahead. As the President stated on April 4, all parties have responsibilities, and the U.S. is committed to doing its part. Progress must be made on all three tracks of our strategy if a lasting end to Israeli-Palestinian violence and progress toward our vision of two states - Israel and Palestine -- living side-by-side in peace and security can be realized.

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