Israel has been denying Palestinian self-determination, Palestinian statehood for the past 50 years. Today he (Arafat) cannot afford to legitimize that role Israel has been playing.

The problem for Arafat today,

Arafat is interested in developing a relationship with all the leaders of the world in order to maintain his legitimacy, his role in establishing a Palestinian state. And you cannot ignore the weight and value of the Vatican -- especially the pope.

Lets play the political game of contacts and dialogue,

No agreement is visible. No agreement is possible. No future is there in the life of the two peoples as long as Sharon is in office.

The Palestinians are expecting the new administration in Washington to take seriously the threats of the Sharon agenda.