Things in Gaza are turning around, Olmert says
PM says Egyptian summit may 'create fresh start for Israel and the Palestinians,' adding he prefers 'seeing the chances beyond the risks'
Olmert spoke in a conference held by The Foundation Fund (Keren Hayesod), an organization dedicated to raising funds for Israel all over the world.
"I'll be meeting with President Mubarak, King Abdullah and Abu Mazen on Monday, and together we'll try to create a fresh start for us and for the Palestinians," he said.
"We'll have the hand of the US guiding us. President Bush wants to see the vision of a Palestinian state co-existing peacefully alongside Israel realized before he leaves his presidency.
"The United States is Israel's dearest friend and is committed to our security... the visit to Washington
has resulted, among other things, in increased US aid to Israel over the next ten years," added Olmert.
The chances beyond the risks
"I'd rather see the chances beyond the risks," said Olmert when asked about recent events in Gaza.
"Some say it (the violence in the Strip) only proves we have no partner for peace. I choose to see the chances, not just the difficulties. I think things in Gaza are turning around for the better.
"Many Palestinians outside Gaza are looking forward to a new environment, both for them and for those of us willing to make the effort to restart the political process," said Olmert.
Sources in Olmert's office confirmed earlier Thursday that Israel agreed to take part in a summit meeting with Palestinian, Jordanian and Egyptian representatives, scheduled to take place this Monday in Sharem el-Sheik.
Israel, said the sources, sees the summit as a clear opportunity to cement the new Palestinian regime in Ramallah as a viable partner in the peace process.
