President Shimon Peres referred to the upcoming renewed peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians on Tuesday, stating that "a window of opportunity is open, but its nature is impatient."
Speaking at a meeting of the World Jewish Congress, Peres said that "Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is leaving today for Washington for the most important task of our times." He added that the only viable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is two states for two nations, stressing that any attempt at another solution would be dangerous.
The president expressed his faith in the prime minister to "be aware of the importance of the task that stands before him and the opportunity that exists."
Peres was also complimentary of US President Barack Obama stating that he played a central role in bringing about the transition from proximity talks to direct talks.
The president praised his Egyptian counterpart Hosni Mubarak and Jordan's King Abdullah for working to prevent conflict in the Middle East and taking part in the upcoming peace summit in Washington.
"This will be an interesting meeting," said Peres, "what unifies the people involved is a true desire for peace and an understanding of the terrible alternative if peace is not achieved."