 to see with all this on a custom sunlight. It's been a pleasure to have an old friend, Prime Minister Shaq Shamir of Israel, back to the White House. His visit symbolizes the close and special relations between our countries. His visit has provided an opportunity for in-depth discussion, and I am pleased to report our discussions went well. High on our agenda, of course, was Middle Eastern peace and our search for a constructive approach to Arab-Israeli reconciliation. We talked about the dangers that threaten Israel and its neighbors and efforts being made to bring a degree of stability to that troubled region. Measurable progress, we both agree, is vital. Peace cannot be built in an environment where there is no hope. In our discussions, we agreed again that the road to peace lies through bilateral negotiations between Israel and its neighbors, including representative Palestinians. We reviewed the diplomatic discussions over the last two years, which we have conducted with Jordan, Egypt and Israel, all of whom share a strong desire to end the conflict that has plagued the Middle East. Our goal now is setting in motion a process accepted by Israel and its neighbors, which can lead to a comprehensive peace settlement. We believe this requires direct bilateral negotiations. Any reasonable means, including an international conference, should be considered, but the United States remains ready to be an active partner in any serious peace effort. Prime Minister Shamir and I discussed Iran. I underscored our opposition to Iran's use of force, terrorism and expansionism. In discussing Iran and other regional issues, the Prime Minister and I agreed on the importance of looking to the future instead of dwelling on the past. We also went over our country's strong and vital bilateral relationship and the broad scope of our cooperation. Both our governments faced tight budgets. I assured Prime Minister Shamir that we will continue our steadfast support for Israel's own efforts to ensure its security and economic well-being. In that regard, we have designated Israel with other countries a major non-NATO ally for purposes of cooperation in certain aspects of military research and development. Finally, in our discussions, we reaffirmed our concern about the plight of Soviet Jewry. We took note of recent releases but are waiting to see the gates truly opened for Jewish emigration. The United States and Israel share many common values and traditions. We have developed a warm friendship that encompasses close mutual and strategic cooperation. This relationship in which each gives special consideration to the other's interests strengthens us both. It is unshakable and we are proud of it. As we look to the future, the Prime Minister and I are committed to the close cooperation long enjoyed by the United States and Israel. It is an honor to have Prime Minister Shamir with us to reaffirm the solid bond of affection between our countries and our peoples. Mr. President, it is with profound satisfaction that I stand here today as we give expression to the abiding and deep friendship between our two countries. Mr. President, America, under your leadership, stands tall and upright despite transient difficulties. You continue to discharge your great responsibility as the leader of the free world. Without strong United States leadership, mankind could be exposed to very grave peril at the hands of the forces of evil and totalitarianism. Our two countries share values, perceptions and goals that unite us in thought and indeed. Since my last visit as Prime Minister, we have given more substance to agreements we reached than in regard to strategic cooperation and the free trade area. Now your administration has moved one more step forward by giving a new dimension to our relations. I refer to your decision to accord Israel the status of a major non-native ally. We have been among the first to join your strategic defense initiative and we opt to expand our cooperation in this program. We have also just concluded an agreement enabling the establishment of a relay station for the voice of America in Israel. Both projects are a reflection of our continuing support of America's defense and advancement of freedom. In our talks today, we explore the prospects of advancing the peace process in the Middle East. While this is not an easy task, it is a noble goal to which we are committed on the foundations of the Camp David Accords, which remain the only agreed and therefore only viable cornerstone for peace in the area, we renew the call to our neighbors to join us in direct negotiations for the attainment of peace between us. Egypt, our partner to the Camp David Agreement, could play a significant role by encouraging our other neighbors to follow our example and enter into face-to-face talks with us without preconditions. Mr. President, the struggle for the freedom and repatriation of Soviet Jewry is by no means over. We must press on with all vigor to persuade the Soviet authorities to let all our people return to their ancient homeland, the land of Israel. I take this opportunity of expressing our gratitude to you, Mr. President, for the great effort you made for the humanitarian cause of our brothers and sisters in the Soviet Union. Their openness at coming home to Israel, at experiencing freedom and democracy is there and our tribute to you. Mr. President, this year 1987 recalls two events of great significance in the life of our two nations. You will celebrate the bicentennial of the United States Constitution, which is regarded as a model for true civil liberties and democratic government. We are marking the 90th anniversary of the birth of our National Liberation Movement and Zionism, which restored us to our ancient land and renewed our national independence. Both events have enriched the quality of our lives and they are in the root of our present relationship, joint efforts, our dreams and our confidence in the future. Thank you, Mr. President.