Olmert: Coalition to be expanded soon
Prime minister meets with Kadima activists in his sukkah, talks about need to change system of government in Israel; says government to be broadened in 'near, immediate future,' hinting to talks with Israel Our Home
Olmert met in recent days with Israel Our Home Chairman Avigdor Lieberman in a bid to examine the possibility of having the party join the government.
"A broadening of the coalition will occur in the near, immediate, future, and be based on the existing coalition agreements. I still consider the Labor Party a senior partner, but I also see a possibility for integrating other elements," the PM said.
Referring to the instability of Israeli governments, Olmert said: "It's a feeling of constant turbulence and of an inability to lead. I'm determined to change the system. Ten years ago, we thought that the problem was with the election system and we changed the system. Then it turned out that this wasn't good, and we reinstated the old system. Apparently, the problem lies in the form of government."
'Syria hasn't changed'
The PM, who discussed changing the system of government with Lieberman, spoke of the various alternatives and noted that "I'm not necessarily impressed with the presidential system (offered by Lieberman)." He stated that several alternatives were currently being looked into, and added that two bills will be presented by Kadima and Israel Our Home soon."We need to find a system that is accepted by all Zionist parties," he added.
Speaking about security issues, Olmert said: "Israel is preparing for any threat posed by any front. We were reminded of the huge danger to global stability when North Korea performed its nuclear test, as well as by the recent events in the north. This stands at the top of Israel's priorities." He added that the issue of the kidnapped soldiers was also at the top of the country's priorities.
Olmert also commented on the Syrian issue. "The price for peace with Syria is well known… we need to think carefully whether we even want negotiations with them, because it's clear what they are going to demand, and this will obviously be the price. Syria continues to harbor terror, and I don't see much change on the ground," he explained.
