Summary of a meeting between Foreign Minister Peres and Egyptian Presidential adviser El-Baz

Egypt has been playing a key role in the Israel-PLO negotiations, urging both sides to make progress and offering Cairo as a convenient venue for these talks. Egypt was also monitoring the talks and informing other interested parties of their progress. Egypt was also deeply involved as a friendly mediator between Israel and Syria. The visit of Osama el-Baz was a routine part of Egypt's diplomacy. Text:

Foreign Minister Shimon Peres met yesterday (Tuesday), 23.05.95, with Dr. Osama El-Baz, special adviser to the President of Egypt, who arrived in Israel for a short visit. The lunch meeting lasted for one and a half hours.

El-Baz said that he brought a message from Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak for Prime Minister Rabin and Foreign Minister Peres. The visit was intended to demonstrate Egypt's commitment to the peace process in the region, the creation of a positive atmosphere and to continuing consultation and cooperation.

Foreign Minister Peres expressed his pleasure with El-Baz's arrival during an important time for the peace talks. He also expressed his respect for the guest's sharp thinking and intellectual integrity.

On the subject of Syria, Mr. El-Baz said that he anticipates a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher and the postponement of his visit is not cause for alarm. He explained that the time to establish peace between Israel and Syria is decisive.