US Secretary of State Colin Powell, speaking with CNN, called on Israel to release additional Arab prisoners from Israeli jails. Powell said he was "confident" regarding the continued implementation of the Road Map, as both sides have been executing the plan. Israel has dismantled outposts and released prisoners, he noted. As for the Palestinian Authority, US State Department officials announced they would scrupulously track the $20 million being given to the Palestinian Authority by the Bush administration. Officials added that they are confident the new PA administration will distribute the money in the proper fashion.
In a further effort to push the Road Map forward, the White House has extended invitations to both Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and to PA leader Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen). The visits are expected to take place towards the end of the month.
In a related matter, Prime Minister Sharon and Abu Mazen are scheduled to meet next week. The meeting between the two planned for this week was canceled by Abu Mazen, under pressure from Fatah leaders.
In a further effort to push the Road Map forward, the White House has extended invitations to both Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and to PA leader Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen). The visits are expected to take place towards the end of the month.
In a related matter, Prime Minister Sharon and Abu Mazen are scheduled to meet next week. The meeting between the two planned for this week was canceled by Abu Mazen, under pressure from Fatah leaders.