Egypt Disagrees with Israel on Arafat
``We differ on this issue (of Arafat) ... But we can find a way, without affecting Arafat, to help negotiations and reach a solution,'' Mubarak told reporters after talks with Israel's Defense Minister Binyamin Ben-Eliezer.

``We're contacting Arafat and the Israeli side to find a formula for the issue to move and find a solution,'' Mubarak said.

Asked why he did not speak directly with Israel's leader, rightwing Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, Mubarak quipped:

``Your leader called me once for a minute-and-a-half and ended the call. So how should I speak to him? When I call I want someone to have a conversation with.''
Egypt Disagrees with Israel on Arafat