The Government of Israel expresses its hope that this important speech in Cairo will indeed lead to a new period of reconciliation between the Arab and Moslem world and Israel.
We share President Obama's hope that the American effort heralds the beginning of a new era that will bring about an end to the conflict and lead to Arab recognition of Israel as the homeland of the Jewish people, living in peace and security in the Middle East.
Israel is committed to peace and will make every effort to expand the circle of peace while protecting its interests, especially its national security.
* * *
FM Liberman's response to speech by US President Obama
During his visit in Belarus, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Avigdor Liberman stated that today's speech by US President Barack Obama was an important address. President Obama expressed his desire to create a better world, one which is ruled by the principles of justice, progress and democracy. "There is great significance to President Obama viewing the Road Map and its first phase of ending violence as a necessary stage to achieving an agreement between Israel and the Palestinians. As President Obama noted, the bond between the US and Israel is strong and unbreakable, even if occasionally there may be legitimate differences."