As a result, we aye seeing a much accelerated pace of peacemaking. In September, the Israelis and Palestinians concluded the Sharm el Sheikh Memorandum. Just this week, the southern safe passage route opened, allowing Palestiniansfor the first time to travel directly from the West Bank to Gaza. Engagement on other issues such as the Gaza Port and security cooperation is also moving forward. They have pledged to make a determined effort to conclude a Framework Agreement on permanent status issues by February and a comprehensive agreement by September 2000.
Time is of the essence on the Syrian and Lebanese tracks as well.
President Assad and Prime Minister Barak have both signaled their commitment to restart and quickly conclude negotiations between Israel and Syria. The government of Israel has made clear its intention to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon by next summer. It is in these circumstances that President Clinton and Secretary of State Albright decided to seek the Senate's approval to send me back to Israel and bring Ambassador Walker back to Washington to manage regional affairs. This is but part of their overall determination to do everything possible to assist the parties in achieving peace in the Middle East. If we are to achieve a secure, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East, we must move quickly to help the parties meet the ambitious goals and timetable they have set for themselves.