Better yet, both have treated me to dinner during recent visits. Another is former Senator George Mitchell, who has done so much to bring about peace in Northern Ireland. Arab-Americans can do, and are doing, much for the cause of peace. By getting involved in economic development and social justice, you are breaking down barriers. And your support is helping ensure America has the resources necessary to stand with those who take risks for peace.
Peace comes through cooperation, interaction, and understanding.
And those principles guide Energy Department policies in the region. The Energy Department's engagement in the Middle East goes far beyond energy diplomacy when Americans are upset about gas prices. In fact, our diplomacy is effective only because we are working, and will continue to work, with nations in the region to improve cooperation and strengthen friendships. For instance, we signed a letter of intent in February with the Palestinian Authority to develop an energy cooperation agreement, the first of its kind. Soon, we hope to be working with the Palestinian people on getting them more electricity, more reliably.