Jerusalem, 3 June 2001
PM Sharon meets with German FM Fischer
(Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Adviser)
PM Sharon to German FM Fischer: Arafat must halt incitement and
violence, and arrest released terrorists; results must be seen
immediately
Prime Minister Ariel Sharon met on Sunday, June 3, 2001, with German
Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer. The latter expressed both his
condolences and those of his government regarding the victims of last
Friday's terrorist attack in Tel Aviv, which he defined as "a terrible
crime."
Foreign Minister Fischer said that he very much appreciated the Israeli
government's policy of restraint since the declaration of a cease-fire
and added that Palestinian Authority Chairman Yasser Arafat must work
towards a cease-fire in deeds and security measures, not just in words.
Foreign Minister Fischer said that he understood the reasons for Prime
Minister Sharon's decision to postpone his trip to Europe but suggested
that he make the trip as soon as possible.
Prime Minister Sharon thanked Foreign Minister Fischer for his efforts
over the past days.
Prime Minister Sharon told Foreign Minister Fischer that since Israel
declared a unilateral cease-fire and adopted the Mitchell Committee
report, there have been more than 140 terrorist attacks, which have
claimed many victims, including the abominable murder in Tel Aviv two
days ago.
Prime Minister Sharon said that PA Chairman Arafat must immediately:
1. Halt the incitement;
2. Halt the violence and terrorism; and
3. Arrest the terrorists who have been released, there being no doubt
that the PA knows their whereabouts.
Prime Minister Sharon said that the PA and Chairman Arafat are engaged
in terrorism and added that Israel does not need words or statements
from Arafat but actions and deeds. The Prime Minister said that the
results must be seen immediately.