(Updated Tuesday 9:15 AM) The \"Quartet\" consisting of leaders from the United States, Russia, The European Union, and The United Nations will be meeting in New York today to discuss Yasser Arafat\'s future as head of the Palestinian Authority. Following US president\'s Bush\'s speech several weeks ago in which he indirectly called for Arafat\'s removal from power, the US has adopted a policy, which calls on Palestinian people to choose new leaders who will commit themselves to carrying out reforms. However, the other three Quartet members feel that Arafat should remain in power since he is the \"elected\" leader of the Palestinians.
Foreign Minister Shimon Peres last night, called on the Quartet to establish a clear diplomatic plan based on President Bush\'s Middle East vision of reforming the Palestinian Authority, followed by the eventual establishment of a Palestinian State.
Foreign Minister Shimon Peres last night, called on the Quartet to establish a clear diplomatic plan based on President Bush\'s Middle East vision of reforming the Palestinian Authority, followed by the eventual establishment of a Palestinian State.