Press encounter before meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister, Shimon Peres, (unofficial transcript)

FM Peres: May I say that I really came to congratulate Kofi Annan for being awarded the Nobel prize. I think he deserves it, on behalf of all of us. I think it is a superb choice, not only because of the things he did, obviously, but also because of the potential he carries -- with his personality, in the way of raised values, in the way of seeing the globe as one [inaudible], and giving a voice to all and togetherness. So that's my purpose of coming here today.

SG: I think this coming from the Foreign Minister is a great tribute, given his own role in peace. And I've often said that in times of crisis and war, a man like Peres, and his voice, is always needed. He's demonstrated courage. He's been determined to do whatever he can to bring about peace, not only in his region, but to reason with others around the world. And I know it's sometimes very lonely, but that has not deterred him. And so I would also want to...

FM: ...Once you get the Prize, you have to justify it for the rest of your life.*****