Secretary Powell traveled to Europe and the Middle East, May 1-3, stopping in Spain, Albania, Syria, and Lebanon. The Secretary's visit was 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 gave 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 signed 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 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.

Remarks by Secretary Powell
05/03/2003: Press Briefing With Lebanese Foreign Minister
05/03/2003: Press Briefing in Damascus
05/02/2003: On-the-Record Briefing En Route to Damascus, Syria
05/02/2003: Remarks at the Article 98 Signing Ceremony
05/02/2003: Remarks at the U.S.-Adriatic Charter Signing Ceremony
05/01/2003: Interview with Spanish Television, TVE

Other Releases
05/03/2003: Press Briefing En Route Shannon
05/02/2003: Fact Sheet on Adriatic Charter
04/30/2003: A Performance-Based Roadmap to a Permanent Two-State Solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
04/30/2003: President Bush's Statement on the Middle East