Statement on the Israel-Jordan Peace Treaty
(October 17, 1994)
The President. I'm delighted by the announcement from
Amman today that King Hussein and Prime Minister Rabin have reached
agreement on the text of an Israel-Jordan peace treaty. These two visionary
leaders today resolved that their nations should henceforth live in
peace and as good neighbors.
This was an extraordinary achievement; it must be welcomed
by the friends of peace all around the world. At a time when hatred
and extremism and threatening behaviors still stalk the Middle East,
this agreement reminds us that moderation and reason are prevailing,
that nations can put conflict behind them, that courageous statesmen
can lead their people to peace.
On behalf of the United States and all the American
people, I congratulate Prime Minister Rabin and King Hussein and, even
more, the people of Israel and the people of Jordan. Together they are
embarking on a journey, a journey of peace that will bring a bright
future for generations to come. The United States has stood by them
and worked with them, and we will stand by them every step of the way.
Thank you very much.
Q. Are you going to the Middle East, sir, if a peace
treaty is signed there?
The President. I have nothing to say about that yet.
Q. Does it sound good for—Syria, the talks in
Syria?
The President. I think it is very good. We're continuing
to work there, and we're encouraged. We just have to keep working. We
have to keep working until it's all done.
Thank you.
Sources: Public Papers of the President |