theological-political divide, which could open up even further down the boundary between so-called Christian heritage states and those of Islamic heritage.

The fact that some of these Arab states are willing to make this public is heartening, and it's a fair response to the Sharon government for the courage which the Sharon government has shown in moving out of Gaza and those four West Bank settlements,

I don't want anybody to underestimate the difficulties ahead,

to ensure that both sides stick by the commitments which we have already entered into.

There are now discussions taking place on other aspects of the negotiating framework, principally on this issue about absorption capacity and privileged partnership,

notwithstanding the great difficulties.