A letter from the President of France to the President of the Palestinian National Authority

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Mr. President,
Now that the Palestinian people have demonstrated in such an eloquent fashion their confidence in electing you to the office of President of the Palestinian national authority, I am particularly happy to convey my most sincere and supportive congratulations.

In these circumstances, I hope you have taken into consideration the opinion of the French authorities for the action you have thus far taken and will be taking in assuming leadership of all Palestinian institutions. Before and since the passing of President Arafat, you have promoted with courage and determination the principles of democracy and statehood in Palestine. In this respect and as the polls have testified a sense of responsibility has been accepted on behalf of the Palestinian people and their leaders.
The Palestinian people still need to engage in the peace process with Israel. You represent for all Palestinians, a hope for settlement based on dialogue and justice. I am convinced that your fellow citizens and also the people of the region can count on your legitimacy and experience to demonstrate wisdom and openness.
Presented with the impetus your election brings, France and the European Union will, now more than ever be at your side. Like you, we are engaged in the search for a peaceful solution to the Middle-East conflict. We know that this solution includes the creation of a viable and democratic Palestinian state, existing in peace and harmony with the state of Israel. We are determined to give you all the necessary support in striving to achieve this objective.
Mr. Michel Barnier will pay you a visit in the coming weeks. He will carry a message on my behalf. I will also be happy to welcome you to Paris as soon as possible.
I wish you every success in your post and I sincerely express the utmost respect and friendship.
Jacques Chirac,
President of the Republic,