PM Transcripts

PRIME MINISTER
TRANSCRIPT OF DEPARTURE COMMENTS, AMMAN AIRPORT. JORDAN
26' JANUARY 1987--
E & O0E PROOF ONLY
PM: I would-like in the presence of my friend the Prime Minister.
to say these things. Firstly, to thank the Prime Minister and
His Majesty and the Government and the people of Jordan for the
the great warmth of the welcome that they have extended me and
to my party. Secondly, to thank them for the frankness of the
discussions. I couldn't have asked for a more detailed exposition
of the view of the Jordanian Government on the important issues
of the region the Israeli/ Arab dispute bilateral discussions
between our two countries, again they were marked by frankness,
directness and a clear hope that we can increase the already
significant relationship that exists between us. I had the
opportunity of coming to Jordan twice before in 1978 and 1980
and on that occasion formed the impression that this was a country
of people with whom I could feel very close. Having come here
in the capacity of Prime Minister of my country I have had the
opportunity of having those feelings confirmed. I am impressed
-the characteristics of -friendliness, integrity and co-uragewwh ich
which I believe typify the leadership o. F-Wthis country. And certainly
I am convinced that they are totally committed to finding a just
and reasonable and durable solution to the problems of this region.
And I certainly will do whatever I can having listened carefully
to the sorts of things that they have been saying to, in whatever
small way it is, to help advance that cause to peace to which
I know they are so committed. I will certainly leave this country
with the warmest of feelings to His Majesty, the Prime Minister
and the people of Jordan. May I say finally that I hope very
much in the not too distant future His Majesty and the Prime Minister
will be able to accept the invitation that I have extended to
them to visit Australia.
ENDS