Jordanian Crown Prince Hassan and Israeli FM Peres meet each other, U.S. Pres. Clinton in Washington. 1st public meeting of Israeli and Jordanian leaders is followed by press conference to announce formation of joint comms. on economic cooperation, environment. (NYT, WP 10/2)
Donor nations' conference in Washington pledges $2.1 b. in aid to Palestinian entity over next 5 years. 43 nations represented pledge $600 m. in next year alone. Biggest donor is EC, pledging $600 m. over 5 years, followed by U.S. at $500 m. in same period. Japan promises $200 m. over 2 years, and Scandinavian countries $150 m. over an unspecified time. Saudi Arabia, ending its cutoff of support for Palestinians, promises $100 m. in 1st year, while Israel offers a$25 m. grant and a $50 m. loan. U.S. VP Al Gore delivers keynote address, while Secy. of State Christopher describes conference results as "a striking success however you measure it." PLO Chmn. Arafat, in Tunis, says aid is insufficient, maintaining that "at least we are in need of $5 billion." (NYT, WP, WT 10/2)
Veteran Israeli peace activist Abie Nathan shuts down his pirate "Voice of Peace" radio station after 20 years, saying PLO-Israel accord has created a new era. (WT 10/2)