USA: WASHINGTON: ARAFAT AND BILL CLINTON MEET

(10 Nov 2000) English/Nat
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Palestinian chairman Yasser Arafat berated his questioner during a question and answer session at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington.

Moderator Frank Sesno suggested that many Americans and some observers in the middle east believe Arafat has an opportunity to urge Palestinian -- and especially Palestinian children -- to stop their protests.

Arafat accused Sesno of suggesting he treat his people like animals.

He complained that Ariel Sharon violated a holy Muslim site and provoked the confrontations.

SOUNDBITE: (English)
"I'm sorry to say this but you want me to treat my people as animals. I won't permit you to speak with me in this language. I can't ... you have to remember why they have moved. The visit of Sharon to our very important and religious site. And I was trying before this (Sharon's) visit, with Barak in his house, we were together. Yes? In his house, and I asked him, please not to let Sharon go to visit."
SUPERCAPTION: Yasser Arafat, Palestinian leader

Arafat said he'd be willing to attend another Middle East summit, with President Clinton as host.

He says that's provided it is well-prepared "to ensure its success."

He stressed the agenda must include Jerusalem's future and Palestinian refugees, issues that he said cannot be deferred.

Arafat met with Clinton at the White House today. After the meeting, Arafat denounced Israel as the cause of violence that has shattered peace talks.

Clinton meets Sunday at the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak.

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