Vance, Israelis Get Down to Business

Secretary of State Cyrus Vance arrived here from Saudi Arabia today and was immediately rushed to Jerusalem where he began what was expected to be hard bargaining with Premier Menachem Begin and other Israeli leaders. (See related story)

Both Vance and Israeli Foreign Minister Moshe Dayan, who greeted him at Ben Gurion Airport, alluded to the differences that have emerged between Israel and the United States over the possibility of Palestine Liberation Organization participation in Middle East negotiations, but both stressed the friendship between the two countries.

“I hope we shall have friendly, frank and constructive discussions,” Dayan said to Vance in the welcoming ceremony in sweltering heat. “We appreciate your efforts and your country’s efforts for seeking peace in the area.” Dayan stressed that “there is a general desire in Israel for peace and a sense of responsibility for the fate of our country.” Then, with a smile, Dayan concluded by quipping: “I assure you that when you accept our views, we shall be in agreement with one another.”

Vance, in his response, said that his visit to Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Saudi Arabia convinced him “that there is a desire for peace in those countries.” He said “it is the intention” of his talks with the Israeli leaders “to accelerate the process toward peace talks.”

“I am aware that there may be some difficulties between us,” Vance noted. “We shall be able to overcome these. President Carter deeply desires to see a just and lasting peace in the area” and efforts made toward achieving that goal. “We are aware that such a peace has to ensure the security of Israel, its strength and survival of values which Israel had always represented, “the Secretary concluded. (See later story P. 3.)