Rubinstein added that as much as things depend on Israel, members of its delegation to the peace talks hope to achieve progress in the round of talks opening today. But chances for a joint agreement on a paper which will include a declaration of principles acceptable to both sides is dependant on the willingness of the Palestinians to move towards the Israeli position. The proposal was discussed recently by the U.S., Israel and the Palestinians. Rabin added that any suggestion of new taxation will have to undergo the legislative process. A parallel drop occurred yesterday in the Bond Index.
Brokers blame the index drop on the uncertainty surrounding alleged new capital gains tax.
Brokers said yesterday that they expect Minister of Finance Avraham Shohat to issue definitive statements which will clear the air on the matter. British sources attending the international air show in Paris expressed interest in the Israeli drones for use by the British units attached to U.N. forces in Bosnia. A few weeks ago the British Army checked with Israel regarding the possibility of purchasing some Pioneer drone systems manufactured by the Israeli Aircraft Industry. Israeli sources at the international air show verified this information. If the deal goes through, it will mark the first such military purchase of Israeli systems by the British.