    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [January 9, 2005]
    [Page 27]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Palestinian Presidential Election
    January 9, 2005

        I am heartened by today's strong turnout in the Palestinian
    elections. Palestinians throughout the West Bank and Gaza took a key
    step toward building a democratic future by choosing a new
    President in elections that
    observers describe as largely free and fair. This is a historic day for
    the Palestinian people and for the people of the Middle East.
        America and all free nations strongly support the efforts of the
    Palestinian people to create lasting democratic institutions. These
    efforts--including today's Presidential elections and the parliamentary
    elections that will follow in several months--are essential for the
    establishment of a sovereign, independent, viable, democratic, and
    peaceful Palestinian state that can live alongside a safe and secure
    Israel. These elections are further proof that, when given a choice, all
    peoples seek to live in liberty and to choose their own government.
        The United States stands ready to help the Palestinian people
    realize their aspirations. The new Palestinian President and his cabinet face critical tasks ahead,
    including fighting terrorism, combating corruption, building reformed
    and democratic institutions, and reviving the Palestinian economy. We
    look forward to working with him and the Palestinian people to address
    these challenges and to advance the cause of Middle East peace
    consistent with the vision I set forth on June 24, 2002, of two states,
    Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. Other
    countries also have constructive and vital roles to play. Israel must
    help to improve the humanitarian and economic situation in the West Bank
    and Gaza and follow through with the Disengagement Plan. The Arab States
    must take concrete steps with all parties to create a regional
    environment conducive to peace, lend financial support to the
    Palestinian people, and refuse to assist or harbor terrorists. The
    United States is looking carefully at how we can best organize and fund
    our own efforts to help the parties achieve a lasting peace.

    Note:In his statement, the President referred to President-elect Mahmoud
    Abbas (Abu Mazen) of the Palestinian Authority.