"We expect their comments; it is not a matter of renegotiation. It can be commented on by the parties," Condoleezza Rice, President George W. Bush's national security adviser, said at a speech to American Israel Public Affairs Committee.

Rice said Israel must "play its part" to pave the way for implementing the blueprint which will lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state by 2005.

Rice was referring to the roadmap request that Israel completely cease Jewish settlements in occupied Palestinian soil, a step Israel has so far refused to embrace.

The top US official also urged all Arab nations to recognize Israel's right to exist, adding that it is "extremely important" for the Palestinian Authority to carry out "democratic reforms."

The roadmap peace plan was developed by the so-called Middle East quartet, which includes the United States, Russia, the European Union and the United Nations.

(Xinhua News Agency April 1, 2003)