DATE=5/08/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH JORDAN (S)

NUMBER=2-289597

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush says Yasser Arafat's condemnation of terrorism is a positive sign, but he wants to see action to match the words. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports Mr. Bush is also urging Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to keep peace in mind as he decides how to respond to Tuesday's suicide bombing near Tel Aviv.

TEXT: Mr. Bush says he was pleased to read Yasser Arafat's denunciation of terror.

///BUSH ACT///

I thought that was an incredibly positive sign. As you know, I have been one who he has disappointed in the past. And therefore I hope his actions now match his words.

///END ACT///

Speaking to reporters at the start of a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah, Mr. Bush said the search continues for a path to peace. He was then asked if he expects Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to show restraint in his response to the latest suicide bombing.

///BUSH ACT TWO///

Israel is a sovereign nation. But whatever response Israel decides to take my hope, of course, is that the prime minister keeps his vision of peace in mind.

///END ACT///

The president said all sides should "seize the moment" in the search for peace, but then acknowledged that every moment in the Middle east is difficult. (signed)

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