Secretary Powell's Trip to Europe and the Middle East

Secretary of State Colin L. Powell will travel to Europe and the Middle East, May 1 – 3, stopping in Spain, Albania, Syria, and Lebanon. The Secretary's visit will be an opportunity to discuss bilateral relations, the liberation of Iraq and progress towards a democratic, representative government in Baghdad, and our efforts to advance Arab-Israeli peace.

His meetings in Spain will give the Secretary the opportunity to consult with the leadership of one of our key partners in the war against terrorism and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as on the UN Security Council. In Albania, Secretary Powell will sign the Adriatic Charter of Partnership with the Foreign Ministers of Albania, Macedonia, and Croatia, underscoring U.S. support for the three countries’ efforts toward eventual full integration into Euro-Atlantic institutions, especially their NATO aspirations.

Secretary Powell will return to the region on another trip once the newly confirmed Palestinian cabinet has had the opportunity to begin its work. That visit will afford the Secretary an opportunity to advance the President's vision of two states -- Israel and an independent Palestine -- living side-by-side in peace and security.