From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Abbas: Historic peace deal possible under Trump
In a press readout from the meeting Tuesday between US President Donald Trump’s peace envoy Jason Greenblatt and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Abbas is quoted as saying that “a historic peace deal is possible” under Trump.
“They reaffirmed the commitment of both the Palestinian Authority and the United States to advance a genuine and lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians,” the readout says.
“President Abbas told Mr. Greenblatt that he believes that under President Trump’s leadership a historic peace deal is possible, and that it will enhance security throughout the region. President Abbas said he looked forward to discussing the possibilities for peace directly with President Trump during his upcoming visit to Washington.”
The statement adds: “Mr. Greenblatt underscored President Trump’s commitment to working with Israelis and Palestinians to achieve a lasting peace through direct negotiations. Mr. Greenblatt emphasized the importance of all parties working to de-escalate tensions. President Abbas committed to preventing inflammatory rhetoric and incitement.”
The two also spoke of their joint determination “to combat violence and terrorism,” and Abbas “assured Mr. Greenblatt that he is fully committed to creating an atmosphere that is conducive to making peace and would heighten his outreach efforts to the Israeli public.”
The statement concludes by noting that the discussion dwelt also on “plans to grow the Palestinian economy and the importance of ensuring economic opportunities for Palestinians, which would enhance the prospects for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. President Abbas stressed to M. Greenblatt that the Palestinian strategic choice is to achieve a two state solution.”
