Mr. Rabin viewed with favour the visit of Soviet Foreign Minister Shevardhadze to the Middle East. He felt that the Soviet Union was undergoing rapid changes, among them the final withdrawal of that power from Afghanistan. He also noted the opening of a Jewish Cultural Center in Moscow. He preferred to wait until Mr. Arens met with Mr. Shevardhadze before commenting on the Soviet peace plan. Text:
Q: What is your opinion of Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze's peace initiative and the trip of Foreign Minister Moshe Arens to Cairo?
A: I believe that changes have taken place in the Soviet Union. Manifestations to that effect [were evident] to all those who watched television last weekend and saw the opening of the Jewish Cultural Center in Moscow and the last Soviet soldier leaving Afghanistan. One also had the opportunity to hear statements from m I others whose sons were killed or wounded during the nine-year war that the Soviet Union waged in Afghanistan.
Q: What about Shevardnadze's peace initiative?
A: 1, therefore, I look favorably upon the visit of the Soviet foreign minister, as well as upon the fact that at his initiative he requested to meet with the Israeli foreign minister, even if only in Egypt. The contents of the initiative are not known. I do not think he is coming with a meticulously drafted plan; he is certainly coming to look into ideas, opinions and thoughts.
Q: Soviet Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze has brought up the idea of holding an international conference on the Middle East during his current tour of the region. Are you in favor of such a conference?
A: I have not heard anything about the matter, other than via the media. I've got patience. We will be in the dark until he speaks with our foreign minister, hears what he has to say, and briefs the government and the Cabinet.
Q: Will Foreign Minister Moshe Arens propose your program, which includes the holding of elections in the territories and the idea of a confederation with Jordan?
A: As we know, this is my proposal, and it is certainly not the Government's stand, even though the Camp David accords do mention elections, albeit in the wake of an agreement. I have reversed the order since at present we have no partner [for dialogue]. Egypt does not represent the Palestinians, Jordan has removed itself from being the leading partner to the political process ( ... )
Q: But will Minister Arens bring up the notion of elections before the Soviet foreign minister?
A: I do not know.
Q: Do believe he should bring it up?
A: I do not advise the foreign minister.
Q: Why did you sign an administrative detention order for Saman Houri, who participated in the meeting between Faisal Husseini and Labor party members?
A: We do not operate by means of the law against those who express opinions. At the same time, we will work within the framework of the law to bring anyone who is involved in the incitement of violence of any form, whether that means bringing him to trial or placing him under administrative detention.