Sharon and Abbas Exchange Peace Pledges

The meeting is the third face-to-face encounter between the two leaders since efforts to launch the peace plan began last month. In a symbolic appearance in front of the Israeli prime minister's office, the two men stood before the world media and spoke of their commitment and desire for peace. Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said the current peace efforts present the Israeli and Palestinian people with a new opportunity. Mr. Sharon said he is ready to make the painful concessions necessary for peace. He said one of the issues before them is how the Palestinians fight terror. Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas said that Palestinians are also looking for an end to conflict and violence. He said the only path to a solution is through negotiation. He had this message for the Israeli and Palestinian people: "Every day without an agreement is a wasted day. Every life that is wasted is a human tragedy. Enough suffering. Enough killing. Let us go forward with bravery, without hesitation, towards peace," said Mr. Abbas.