On 25 February 1985, in an interview published in the New York Times, President Mubarak called for direct talks between Israel and a Jordanian-Palestinian delegation. But President Mubarak insisted that the PLO have a role in the proceedings, a demand rejected by Israel. Nevertheless, Mr. Peres did welcome the Egyptian initiative and hinted that an Egyptian envoy, Osama el-Baz would arrive in Israelfor talks on the Egyptian proposal. Osama el-Baz did arrive the next day and held talks with the prime minister. It appeared that what Mr. Mubarak had in mind were two phased talks, the first between the U.S. and a Jordanian-Palestinian delegation, and the second between Israel, Egypt, the U.S. and a Jordanian-Palestinian delegation, in Cairo. Excerpts of the interview follow:
Answering a question about the chances of a peace initiative by President Mubarak of Egypt, the prime minister said:
First of all we must check precisely what was published and what was said, because during the day there have been different announcements. If President Mubarak really did speak in favor of direct negotiations and did not insist on an international conference, I would regard this as an important contribution and an advance... As for the delegation, a Jordanian-Palestinian delegation, without the PLO, is always acceptable to us. We insist on what I think is the only thing which... is to be discussed in the negotiations, namely, negotiations without people who deal in terrorism, without preconditions - we are prepared to listen to whatever the Jordanians are prepared to suggest - each side should be free to make its proposals, and each side should listen to the proposals of the other side.
Q: The latest proposal published by President Mubarak says that the PLO should be a party to the negotiations?
A: You asked me if there has been any progress in the Egyptian attitude, and I say there has. You ask about our position, and I made it clear that we will insist that members of the PLO - and the PLO is still continuing to engage in terrorism cannot come with both a microphone and a gun.
Q: If the Egyptians make the negotiations contingent on the PLO's participation, will we reject their proposal?
A: Yesterday there was no proposal of this kind. Tomorrow is tomorrow. But our position will not change, because it is the only logical one. At any rate, if the things which have been published really have been said with the assent of - the
president I will regard this as progress, and it indicates that the president is seeking a way to make an opening for peace.
Q: Do you expect an envoy from President Mubarak, Osama el-Baz or someone else?
A: I heard this - as you did - from the media. If an envoy comes I will naturally welcome him, and we will hold an open and serious discussion.
Q: Did you receive an official announcement of the arrival of an Egyptian envoy?
A: I don't know what you call official, but if an envoys come I will receive a statement and give one.