(Communicated by the Office of the President)

President Shimon Peres, this afternoon (Wednesday, 23 July 2014), met with US Secretary of State John Kerry for a private meeting during which they discussed the current security situation and ways to lower the flames. At the start of the meeting President Peres thanked Secretary Kerry for his visit to Israel and said, "I am glad that you've come back. In spite of all the difficulties we shouldn't give up, to give up invites a tragedy for hundreds of thousands of people. I want to express my highest appreciation for your assistance, for your tirelessness and commitment. I wish you success and I express my highest regard for the president. I know you are both looking for the best solution to an impossible situation."

Secretary Kerry thanked President Peres and said, "I'm honored that I'm able to see you in the last days of your presidency. I look forward to continuing our work; we have a lot to do still."