Mr. Ambassador:

It is with great pleasure that I accept your Letter of Credence, which appoints you as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to the United States of America. Allow me to extend to you a warm, personal welcome to our nation's capital. I also acknowledge the Letter of Recall of your predecessor, Ambassador Rabinovich. I know that this Administration will continue to enjoy a close working relationship with the Israeli Embassy under your leadership.

On behalf of the American people, I would like very much to extend my personal best wishes to President Weizman, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to the people of Israel. We in America have always considered Israel to be a true friend among nations.

The United States and Israel are linked by profound historical and culture ties and by key shared objectives, foremost of which is our mutual pursuit of peace in the Middle East. Since the birth of Israel forty-eight years ago, the United States has remained steadfastly committed to Israel's security and well-being. In keeping with that commitment, we have joined as partners in pursuing the path toward a comprehensive peace in the Middle East. Despite the historic achievements of recent years, we have a long way to go and difficult issues still to overcome. We must remain tireless in our pursuit of peace.

As I told Prime Minister Netanyahu in our recent meeting, I am greatly encouraged by the positive and courageous step he took to advance the peace process through dialogue with Chairman Arafat and through his commitment to implementation of the Interim Agreement. It is also my hope that negotiations will resume with Syria. Mr. Ambassador, let me underscore my personal support for the peace process and reaffirm my commitment to facilitate that process. I am confident that, working together, we shall attain a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the Middle East -- one that safeguards Israeli security, yet allows generations of Israelis and Arabs to live side-by-side in harmony.

The areas of cooperation and friendship between the United States and Israel stretch across the full range of endeavor and enterprise. Our two countries participate in many significant and beneficial bilateral programs in the fields of science and technology, economic development, agricultural research and environmental improvement. The United States and Israel also collaborate to combat issues of global concern such as terrorism, narcotics, infectious diseases, unsustainable population growth, abuse of human rights, including the human rights of women, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This extensive cooperation between our two countries will form the basis of our continuing excellent relations as we enter the twenty-first century.

Mr. Ambassador, you have my best wishes as you assume your new responsibilities. I have no doubt that your long and distinguished career in government will serve both countries well. The already strong relationship between our two countries -- our deep and lasting partnership -- holds even greater promise for the future. On behalf of the United States, please be assured of our utmost cooperation as we strive for the peace and security that Israel so richly deserves.

I am sure that you will take every opportunity to get to know America better and that you will call on your distinguished diplomatic skills and experience to share with the American people the vast range of Israel's past and present contributions to our common heritage. May your time here in Washington be enjoyable. Congratulations, and again, please accept my warmest welcome.