Prior to departing for the farewell ceremonies at Ben-Gurion airport, President Sadat called on President Katzir at the President's residence in Jerusalem. After an exchange of gifts, President Katzir made the following remarks:
Mr. President:
I am happy to welcome you here in the President's Residence in Jerusalem, before your departure for Cairo.
This has indeed been a visit of historic importance to both our nations. It has come into being thanks to your determination and your desire to see the long conflict between us reach an end.
It is my hope that the dialogue you have initiated will continue and indeed lead to the opening of a new chapter in the relations between Egypt and Israel.
Geography has made us neighbours, and we are connected by a tradition thousands of years old with roots common to both of us.
You have spoken with our Prime Minister, with our Ministers and the representatives of all the factions in the Knesset. I am sure that you now have a clearer picture of our attitudes and problems.
Despite the differences among the various factions, you have, I am certain, felt that each and every one of them is eager to reach true peace.
During the two days you have been in our country. I have had the opportunity to spend several hours with you, and I have been profoundly impressed by your personality, your devotion to the principles in which you believe, and your sincere will to contribute to the coming of peace and the waking of a better future for all our sons and daughters.
May our going now be blessed, and may you, the people of Egypt and the People of Israel enjoy peace and prosperity.