Following is the text of the message Premier Menachem Begin sent to President Carter on Nov. 17:
Dear Mr. President,
Having received official confirmation that President Sadat will arrive in our country Saturday night, the 19th, may I use this opportunity to express to you Israel’s deep gratitude for your efforts which contributed so magnificently to bringing about the momentous meeting in Jerusalem.
We hope with all our hearts that this dialogue will continue and bring about the peace for which–as I wrote to President Sadat–the peoples of the Middle East yearn and pray.
I believe, Mr. President, that without your contribution these events could not and would not have been set in motion. People here and abroad contend that this is an historic moment. You have created it, Mr. President, and I express to you my deepest heartfelt thanks. Of course, Mr. President, I shall keep you informed about the talks with President Sadat.
Yours Respectfully,
Menachem Begin.
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