THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary ____________________________________________________________________ For Immediate Release March 15, 1993 REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT IN PHOTO OPPORTUNITY WITH PRIME MINISTER RABIN OF ISRAEL The Oval Office 10:35 A.M. EST Q Mr. President, what do you think are the chances of resuming the Middle East peace talks if deportees are not returned immediately? THE PRESIDENT: I think the Secretary of State's done a commendable job on his trip and he's worked with the Prime Minister on that issue. And I think we've got a good chance to resume the talks. I certainly hope we will. Q Do you think all the parties will come back? THE PRESIDENT: I certainly hope so. Q Sir, as you prepare for the first peace talks under your guidance, what do you think the prospects are for a lasting peace in the Middle East? THE PRESIDENT: I think there are a lot of reasons to be hopeful. Obviously, there's difficulty and there are those who would prefer that it not be done, but I think we have a real shot. * * * * * Q Mr. President, do you think the United States could be helpful in bringing peace between Israel and Syria? Are you optimistic that peace can come -- between these two countries can come during this year? THE PRESIDENT: Well, I hope that the peace process will resume shortly. And I'm hopeful that it can produce a good result. I think there's a chance. Q What is your reaction to terrorist action in Israel today and the day before? If you've heard about it, what do you think about it? THE PRESIDENT: Yes, I've heard about it, and I'm disturbed about it. I hope it won't deter any of the parties involved from seeking a genuine long-term peace. But the larger security interests of all the nations involved still argue for trying to have a good-faith effort at the peace process. THE PRESS: Thank you. END10:40 A.M. EST