Prime Minister Sharon said at Ben Gurion Airport this morning that his visit to the U.S. is for the purpose of \"strengthening the special relationship between Israel and the U.S., and presenting the Administration with our assessments regarding the situation in the Middle East, our relationships with our neighbors, and the future of the peace process.\" Sharon continued, \"All of Israel is united in our efforts for security and peace. The National Unity Government we established expresses this unity… We believe and are committed to the principle of resolving conflicts and disputes peacefully through negotiations… I embark on this special mission with a feeling of responsibility - the responsibility that the citizens of Israel placed upon me, and who want to live in peace and security here in their ancient homeland.\"



Sharon will be replaced during his absence by Deputy Prime Minister Shimon Peres.