For Immediate Release
May 21, 2003

Global Message

President Bush spoke Tuesday morning with Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas. It was their first conversation.

President Bush remains committed to the vision of June 24th, including Israeli and Palestinian states living side by side in peace.

The President reminds all parties to take concrete steps toward peace. Cooperative efforts between all Arab parties and Israel are required to create the conditions for peace and security in the Middle East.

All parties must fight terror.

America remains committed to the security of the state of Israel.

President Bush appreciates Prime Minister Abbas' commitment to reform, peace, and ending all acts of terror, and he looks forward to meeting the Prime Minister in the future.