[Dr. Aaron Lerner - IMRA: If President Shimon Peres genuinely believes that
"today it is clear to everyone that there is no better option than two
states for two peoples" - emphasis "everyone" - then there are grounds for
very serious concerns regarding his health. It is one thing for him to
assert that "most" share his views, but to claim that "everyone" does
indicates that he is profoundly out of touch with reality.]

​President Peres: “Abu Mazen is a partner for peace and today it is clear to
everyone that there is no better option than two states for two peoples.”
(Communicated by the President’s Office)

President Peres with Lithuanian FM Linkevikius in Jerusalem (Photo: GPO/Mark
Neiman)

President Shimon Peres, this morning (Tuesday, 21 May 2013), at his
Jerusalem residence, held a diplomatic working meeting with Lithuanian
Foreign Minister Linas Linkevikius. The two discussed strengthening the
relations between the two countries as well as Israel's relations with the
European Union, of which Lithuania will assume the council presidency in
July. President Peres began by congratulating Lithuania on her upcoming role
and said, "As President of the State of Israel I congratulate Lithuania on
her upcoming role, it is a tremendous honor and I'm sure it is a source of
pride for the Lithuanian people."

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linkevikius, spoke of the deep and long-standing
relations between the two countries and of the many Israeli's of Lithuanian
origin including journalists, diplomats and public figures. Foreign Minister
Linkevikius assured President Peres that Lithuania is a friend of Israel
and, while not taking sides, will support Israel during the country's tenure
as the president of the European Council.

President Peres also addressed the issue and said, "I believe that John
Kerry's initiative to progress the peace talks between Israel and the
Palestinians will lead to a breakthrough. Abu Mazen is a partner for peace
and today it is clear to everyone that there is no better option than two
states for two peoples. Kerry's efforts are important and together with the
important work of the European Union and the voices from the Arab League, it
is possible to create a framework to restart the talks."