    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [May 17, 1999]
    [Page 800]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Election of Ehud Barak as Prime
    Minister of Israel
    May 17, 1999

        On behalf of the American people, I want to extend my warmest
    congratulations to Ehud Barak upon his election as Israel's new Prime
    Minister. The people of Israel have given the new Prime Minister a
    strong mandate.
        I have just spoken with Prime Minister Netanyahu to thank him for his dedicated service to Israel. I
    also spoke with Prime Minister-elect Barak to congratulate him and
    reaffirm our Nation's steadfast support for Israel and its people. I
    will continue to work energetically for a just, lasting, and
    comprehensive peace that strengthens Israel's security. I look forward
    to working closely with Ehud Barak and his new government as they strive
    to reach that goal with their Palestinian and Arab partners.