"The Israeli government's endorsement of the "road-map" The Foreign Affairs Spokesperson of the IFP, Mr J.H. van der Merwe, said that the Party is pleased that the government of Israel, albeit narrowly, voted for the Middle-East "road map", which would lead to an independent Palestinian state within three years.

Mr Van der Merwe said:

"The IFP welcomes the resolution by the Israeli Government, as well as the Palestinian agreement, to support the "road map" to peace in the Middle-East. As the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland, and indeed the negotiated settlement in South Africa demonstrated, the path to peace is often tentative, often fraught with difficulties, but is one that must be trod."

"If the "road map" is to succeed, it is imperative that Israeli concerns about the integrity of their State, as well as the aspirations and the rights of the Palestinian people are addressed within the negotiating framework. This is a time for measured diplomacy and cool temperaments. South Africa is a role model of the triumph of hope and tolerance over fear and adversity, and is positive proof that there is no dispute that cannot be resolved."

"After visiting the region myself last year as a member of the parliamentary delegation and speaking to those on both sides of the conflict, I am more than convinced that this impasse can be broken and a brighter tomorrow can rise in the Middle-East."