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Prime Minister and Mrs Barak and other members of the Israeli Government and delegation, my wife and I are particularly pleased to be here in Israel, it is my third visit to your country, but of course the first as Prime Minister.
Our two nations have a good strong history, we have much in common, we share common values, including a very strong commitment to the cause of peace. And I welcome your remarks Prime Minister about the peace process. We admire the leadership that you have given in that area and the steps that you have taken to bring about a more sustainable understanding between Israel and other countries in the region.
I come as the leader of a nation which has long supported Israel and has long admired the remarkable tenacity of the Israeli people sometimes in very difficult circumstances.
I look forward very much to our discussions and I thank you for the warmth of the welcome that has been extended to me, to my wife and our colleagues.