Shimon Peres-16/07/2007

Shimon Peres, (Guardian)

"Israel must not only be an asset but a value. A moral, cultural and scientific call for the promotion of man, every man. It must be a good and warm home for Jews who are not Israelis, as well as for Israelis who are not Jews. And it must create equal opportunities for all, without discriminating between religion, nationality, community or sex. The president must call on the religious and secular public to find that which is common between them. He must call on the Palestinians and on the Arab countries, without blurring their heritage, to participate in the great journey across a world built on intellect, not only on land. To give supremacy to education. I believe that politics deals with borders and the economy in relations. Good relations are likely to make possible the marking of secure and agreed borders.

Within us there are hidden enormous creative powers in the spiritual, philosophical, scientific and cultural fields. And deep in us is the obligation to attend to human distress in every place, the place of the poor of your people and the place of the deprived in your area."

"The Valley of Peace extends along the border between us, the Hashemite Kingdom and the Palestinians. It may become a haven of cooperation between Israel, Jordan and the Palestinians. All three have already given their agreement. The Arava will be an amazing tourist area. A number of artificial lakes in it are likely to make it alive and attractive. Along its length a water conduit will be built to the Dead Sea to compensate it for the loss of its water. Along the valley industrial parks will be established which will offer many opportunities of work for all the partners. In the Valley of Peace we will see how, for the first time, it will be possible to harness the economy as a bulldozer for peace. A partnership between organized Jordan and modern Israel will help the Palestinians overcome their destitution and establish their country.

I believe that politics deals with borders and the economy in relations. Good relations are likely to make possible the marking of secure and agreed borders.

The Valley of Peace is a challenge which is likely to create enthusiasm among our brethren in the Diaspora to participate in the path of a broad vision aimed at creating life and peace. It may also bring support from the Gulf Countries. It is likely to enthuse the young people, as it binds science, development and peace into one sheaf."

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