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Bush Sends Condolences Upon Death of Yasser Arafat

President calls on leaders to work "toward the ultimate goal of peace"

President Bush has extended his condolences to the Palestinian people upon the death of their leader, Yasser Arafat.

In his November 11 statement, Bush said he hoped the future will bring peace and the fulfillment to the Palestinian's aspiration for an "independent, democratic Palestine that is at peace with its neighbors."

Following is the text of Bush's statement:

THE WHITE HOUSE
http://www.whitehouse.gov
Office of the Press Secretary
November 11, 2004

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

The death of Yasser Arafat is a significant moment in Palestinian history. We express our condolences to the Palestinian people. For the Palestinian people, we hope that the future will bring peace and the fulfillment of their aspirations for an independent, democratic Palestine that is at peace with its neighbors. During the period of transition that is ahead, we urge all in the region and throughout the world to join in helping make progress toward these goals and toward the ultimate goal of peace.