[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.