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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Office of Public Information JCPA ENCOURAGED AT RESUMPTION OF ISRAEL-SYRIA TALKS Leadership expresses cautious optimism as talks resume in Washington New York City – December 16, 1999 –Jewish Council for Public Affairs Chair, Steven Schwarz, welcomed the resumption of peace talks between Israel and Syria, which began yesterday in Washington, DC. The meetings between Israeli Prime Minster Ehud Barak and Syrian Foreign Minister Farouk al-Shara is the highest level meeting between the two countries since negotiations officially began in 1991. Following is the full text of Mr. Schwarz’s statement: "Yesterday’s meeting in Washington between Prime Minster Barak and Foreign Minister al-Shara, provides a unique opportunity to achieve real peace between Israel and Syria. President Clinton and Secretary of State Albright are to be commended for their hard work and persistence in facilitating these negotiations. Prime Minister Barak’s presence at this initial meeting is testament to Israel’s strong desire for peace, and we hope that the Syrian commitment is equally as strong. Although these meetings represent only the opening of talks, and it is too early to expect an agreement, I am hopeful that a real peace can be achieved. It is unfortunate that Mr. Shara used the opening event as a platform to present Syria’s "case" and, in doing so repeated a number of historical distortions. We are hopeful that a more positive spirit will be reflected in private discussions. As the parties begin their journey to peace, there will be many complicated issues on the table: the Golan Heights, Israeli settlements, security, water, and many others. We are under no illusions; negotiating a peace agreement with a once-hostile nation will require will and determination by all parties. For peace to take root, Syria must be prepared to meet Israel with a ‘warm peace,’ signified by open borders, ambassador exchanges, trade and commerce and tourism. We are hopeful that these meetings will lay the groundwork for a true peace between the countries, a comprehensive peace that will ensure its durability." ###
The Jewish Council for Public Affairs is the public affairs arm of the organized Jewish community and serves as the national coordinating and advisory body for the 13 national and 122 local agencies comprising the field of Jewish community relations. |
