July  1, 2002

Mubarak underscores need for mechanism to implement Bush speech on ME

    "Both the Palestinian and Israeli sides have duties to fulfill," Mubarak said following a meeting with the political group.

    Mubarak said he hopes the US would explain the vague points included in the speech that he said need many clarifications to avoid different explanations that might undermine it.

    There should be a committee or any mechanism to explain how to put into effect what Bush indicated to in his speech.

    On the calls to remove Palestinian President Yasser Arafat and whether there was coordination between Egypt and the US to find alternatives to Arafat, Mubarak said: "This has never beeb discussed at any time during my visit to the US, and the issue has never raised because our stance on this matter is known and clear.

    We do not express any opinion behind closed doors, our opinion is clear".

    On whether he made contacts with the US following Bush's speech, Mubarak said contacts are going on with the US and President Bush so as to get a clear understanding of the situation and help end the problem.

    He reiterated his calls for halting bombings, destruction and humiliation or else "we will not be able to reach a solution or find any mechanism to do anything."

    On the possibility of holding an Arab summit, even a limited one, to face up to Israel's attempts to impose its explanation of Bush's speech, Mubarak said such a summit would be held when the atmosphere is suitable to take resolutions or come up with a vision.

    On whether there were contacts with other parties other than Washington, Mubarak said contacts were being made with Israel and the Palestinians.

    "Soon I will send an envoy to Israel and another to the Palestinian Authority because the situation can't go on forever like this, and I'm afraid that future complications might lead to chaos in the region, "Mubarak expounded.