(Communicated by the President’s Media Adviser)

Jewish-Druze relations and overcome the local authorities crisis. The Druze leaders thanked President Katsav for his close relationship with their community and for his actions on its behalf, and expressed their hope that the President would continue helping to improve Jewish-Druze relations and overcome the local authorities crisis. President Katsav thanked the Druze leaders and made the following statement regarding the diplomatic situation: “A new Palestinian leader has been elected. I believe him when he says that he disavows terrorism but if he understands that terrorism is a disaster for the Palestinians, why isn’t he acting with all his power against terrorism? As long as Abu Mazen doesn’t show assertive leadership, there will be no peace process. President Katsav welcomed Azzam Azzam, who was present, and said that the Syrian and Lebanese governments were encouraging Hezbollah, thus endangering the fragile chances for a regional reconciliation. “I hope that we will be able to meet in this Druze holy place next year and that Druze from Syria will be with us,” the President said. BPI-infó