Transcript of press conference by SecGen – Spokesman’s Office – (excerpts)

TRANSCRIPT OF PRESS CONFERENCE BY SECRETARY-GENERAL KOFI ANNAN

AT UN HEADQUARTERS, 12 NOVEMBER 2002

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Question:  Two things.  First of all, there is increased talk about the possibility of the Israeli Government deporting President Yasser Arafat.  The situation is rather horrible out there, so I was wondering what you think of this talk about deportation?

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The Secretary-General:  On the first question, of course, I have also read the reports, and I hope this does not happen.  I think many governments around the world have indicated that it would be unwise to exile Chairman Arafat.  I hope this will not happen.

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Thank you very much.

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