On the eve of the start of the Israel-PLO negotiations for the implementation of the Declaration of Principles, Foreign Minister Peres sent a letter to the Norwegian foreign minister confirming the Israeli position on Palestinian institutions in East Jerusalem, whose interests and well-being will be preserved Israel will encourage them in the performance of their tasks. This letter was sent at the request of Foreign Minister Holst who wanted to reassure the PLO on this issue. The letter was made public only on 7 June 1994, after Arafat claimed he had an Israeli commitment on the PLO status in East Jerusalem. Text:
Jerusalem, October 11 1993
Dear Minister Holst,
I wish to confirm that the Palestinian institutions of East Jerusalem and the interests and well-being of the Palestinians of East Jerusalem are of great importance and will be preserved.
Therefore, all the Palestinian institutions of East Jerusalem, including the economic, social, educational and cultural, and the holy Christian and Muslim places, are performing an essential task for the Palestinian population.
Needless to say, we will not hamper their activity; on the contrary, the fulfillment of this important mission is to be encouraged.
Sincerely,
Shimon Peres
Foreign Minister of Israel
His Excellency Johan Jorgen Holst
Foreign Minister of Norway