President Barack Obama's new Mideast envoy says his visit to the Mideast sends a clear signal that the US is committed to pursuing peace and stability in the troubled region.
George Mitchell's visit is the first for the new Obama administration. The former US senator met Wednesday with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and was headed to Israel later in the day.
Mitchell and Mubarak in Cairo (Photo: AFP)
"It is of critical importance that the ceasefire be extended and consolidated, and we support Egypt's continuing efforts in that regard. The United States is committed to vigorously pursuing lasting peace and stability in the region," Mitchell told a news conference after meeting with Mubarak in Cairo.
Egypt's actions against weapons smuggling are crucial, and Israeli officials believe that they would be critical in maintaining the ceasefire with Hamas.
Israeli defense officials said this week that since Operation cast Lead concluded there has been an improvement in this regard. During his meeting with Mubarak, Mitchell lauded Egypt for its efforts to curb the smuggling.