Communicated the by Prime Minister's Media Advisor Jerusalem, 8 January 1997 Prime Minister Netanyahu comments on Hebron negotiations Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today (Wednesday), 08.01.97, made the following remarks about the Hebron negotiations at a briefing for economic correspondents following the Cabinet meeting on the issue of structural changes in the economy: "The Hebron negotiations are mostly concluded. We are discussing issues beyond Hebron, but we do not intend -- from our point of view -- to enter into a comprehensive discussion of this issue. The other side has been trying unceasingly to postpone the implementation of the agreement, just as I said two months ago. The other side has apparently decided not to conclude the negotiations. When the other side decides, then we will conclude the negotiations. We cannot force this on them, but it is perfectly clear that we are insistent on the vital issues from our point of view." "The latest meeting (between myself and Arafat) narrowed the gaps between the sides." "What has been achieved up until now is a better, more responsible and more secure agreement. In its current format, it is better for both sides. In my opinion, security for the Israelis in Hebron is also security for the Palestinians. The fact that we have introduced more security and more cooperation for security will benefit both sides." "If the Palestinians want to conclude the negotiations, we will conclude them. If they do not want to, we are patient."