September 20, 2010
President stresses Israel's desire for peace at the UN's Millennium Development Goals summit in New York.
President Shimon Peres on Monday stressed Israel's aspirations for peace with its neighbors, declaring Israel's will to enter direct negotiations with Syria during his speech at the United Nation's Millennium Development Goals summit in New York.
"Israel is the product of pioneering human spirit… In spite of wars, we made peace with Egypt and Jordan," said Peres. "[And now] we are ready to enter direct negotiations with Syria. Right away."
Peres also stressed the need for a two-state solution with the Palestinians, saying "there is no other peaceful alternative."
"We are now negotiating with the Palestinians in order to realize a Jewish state – Israel, and an Arab state – Palestine…and I believe that we shall succeed," Peres declared.
Peres went on to harshly condemn Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his countless declarations to "annihilate Israel."
"I believe that the Middle East has room for every person, every nation, every religion," said Peres. "Israel will continue to exist and aspire to peace with its neighbors."