Excerpts from Sadat’s Speech

Fallowing are excerpts from Egyptian President Anwar Sadat’s address:

Today, a new down is emerging out of the darkness of the past. A new chapter is being opened in the history of co-existence among nations, one that is worthy of our spiritual values and civilization. Never before had men encountered such a complex dispute which is highly charged with emotions. Never before did men need that much courage and imagination to confront a single challenge…

Men and women of good will have labored day and night to bring about this happy moment. Egyptians and Israelis alike pursued their sacred goal undeterred by difficulties and complications. Hundreds of dedicated individuals on both sides have given generously of their thought and effort to translate the cherished dream into a living reality. But the man who performed the miracle was President Carter. Without any exaggeration, what he did constitutes one of the greatest achievements of our time….

We are also heartened by the understanding of hundreds of thousands of Israelis who remained unwavering in their commitment to peace. The continuation of this spirit is vital to the coronation of our effort.

We realize that difficult times lay ahead. The signing of these documents marks only the beginning of peace. But it is an indispensable start. Other steps remain to be taken without delay or procrastination. Much will depend on the success of these steps. We are all committed to pursue our efforts until the fruits of the comprehensive settlement we agreed upon are shared by all parties to the conflict…..

Let there be no more wars or bloodshed between Arabs and Israelis who lived together in peace and harmony for centuries. Let there be no more suffering or denial of rights. Let there be no more despair or loss of faith. Let no mother lament the loss of her child. Let no young man waste his life on a conflict from which no one benefits….