New York – President Bush on Wednesday called embattled Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas a “man of courage” for trying to revive Mideast peace talks although his clout was curtailed when the militant group Hamas won control of his government.
On the sidelines of a U.N. General Assembly meeting, Bush tried to breathe new life into negotiations on resolving the long-running conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians.
Propping up the moderate Abbas was Bush’s final undertaking before returning to Washington.
“In order to achieve this vision, there must be leaders willing to speak out and act on behalf of people who yearn for peace, and you are such a leader, Mr. President,” Bush said after his 40-minute meeting with Abbas at a New York hotel. “I can’t thank you enough for the courage you have shown.”
Israel wants to reopen a serious dialogue with Abbas and work with him to establish a Palestinian state.
But Abbas has been in a weakened position since January when Hamas, which seeks the destruction of Israel, won the Palestinian elections.
Abbas has been trying to persuade Hamas leaders to moderate their anti-Israel policies and join with his Fatah Party in a coalition government.
“We look forward to your support and your help and your aid because we are in dire need for your help and support,” Abbas said to an audience that included Bush and reporters. “Mr. President, we will always be faithful and truthful to peace and we will not disappoint you.”
Arab nations, including the few moderate states that are key to U.S. goals in Iraq, Iran and Lebanon, view improving the Palestinians’ lot as essential. The festering grievances of the stateless Palestinians feed unrest and radicalism elsewhere.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is likely to travel to friendly Mideast nations next month, her first visit since a U.N.-brokered cease-fire ended the month-long cross-border war in Lebanon.
She was meeting with moderate Arab nations Wednesday on the sidelines of the U.N. meeting.
