US applauds peace plan acceptance

US officials yesterday applauded Israel's acceptance of a “road map” for Middle East peace.

“It's an important step forward,” White House spokesman Adam Levine said.

“We look forward to working with all parties in the region to realise the vision of peace laid out by President Bush in his June 24 (2002) speech.”

“We welcome this development and confirmation of Prime Minister Sharon's acceptance of the road map,” the State Department said.

“The president has affirmed his determination to move ahead and to make progress ... using the road map as a practical guide.” US Senator Joseph Lieberman urged the Bush administration to seize “a moment of opportunity here.” But he cautioned that the Israeli cabinet approved “the process” of the road map, not the document itself.