Fed: Howard praises Sharon's Gaza pullout

AAP General News (Australia)
08-19-2005
Fed: Howard praises Sharon's Gaza pullout

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has praised Israel's pullout from the Gaza settlements,
hailing it as a courageous move that will boost the Middle East peace process.

Israel is evacuating Jewish residents from all 21 settlements in the Gaza Strip and
four in the West Bank.

The settlements are on land the Palestinians want for a future state.

The withdrawal has been marked by fierce resistance from some settlers.

Mr HOWARD says Israeli Prime Minister ARIEL SHARON has shown enormous courage in forging
ahead with the plan.

He says Australia will continue to support both Israel and the Palestinians in their
efforts towards peace.

AAP RTV rp/mfh/low/bk

KEYWORD: MIDEAST HOWARD (CANBERRA)

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