Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak, in an interview with an Italian daily, said he would be prepared to pay a visit to Israel if it would help advance the stalling Mid-East peace. However, the Egyptian leader doubted the current timing was appropriate for such an endeavor.
In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Mubarak replied to a question on whether he would consider visiting Israel by saying, "An official visit now? What would I say to my people? I can't go against the desires of the Egyptian people who elected me. However, if it is useful for achieving peace, I will go to my people to get their approval to go to Israel. This is a matter they would understand in the name of true peace."
Meanwhile, AP reported Wednesday that the Egyptian President said Cairo would accept Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat if he is expelled, but added that such a move by Israel would be a "fatal error." (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
