[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 2 (Monday, January 17, 2005)]
[Pages 32-33]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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.

[[Page 33]]

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.