Bush and Blair push for peace in Middle East
The British Prime Minister and US President pledged last night to put a peace deal in the Middle East at the top of their joint agenda.
Speaking at a joint White House press conference, Tony Blair and George Bush said “a new opportunity” has emerged to forge a lasting peace in the region.
Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was buried yesterday amid chaotic scenes in Ramallah.
Mr Bush told reporters that the setting up of an independent Palestinian state was possible within the next four years.
Mr Blair added that the first priority was to make sure Palestinian elections took place to select Mr Arafat’s successor. The Palestinian Authority plans to hold elections within 60 days.
“People want their freedom, and we’re not going to have our security unless they have that freedom,” the Prime Minister said.
Mr Blair is the first foreign leader to meet Mr Bush since he won re-election.
The US President also used the press conference to signal his intention to rebuild bridges with EU nations and promised to visit Europe next year.
