After nine days of sometimes around-the-clock negotiations at the secluded Wye River Plantation retreat in eastern Maryland, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat agreed on a breakthrough land-for-peace West Bank accord. After President Clinton and Jordan's King Hussein interceded in the talks, the Palestinians agreed to eliminate anti-Israel provisions in their founding charter; the Israelis decided to cede 13 percent more of West Bank territory and free 750 political prisoners.

Audio quotes and speech text from the White House signing ceremony follow. A RealAudio player is required to hear the sound.

President Clinton "This agreement is designed to rebuild trust." • AUDIO: Clinton announces the agreement. • AUDIO: Clinton addresses the importance of the peace process. • Clinton full text

Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat "We will never leave the peace process." Voice of translator • AUDIO: Arafat says the peace process is irreversible. • AUDIO: Arafat says peace will give Palestinians independence. • Arafat full text

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu "This has required sacrifice from both sides." • AUDIO: Netanyahu says the ceremony represents an important step. • AUDIO: Netanyahu says the ceremony is an important step toward security for Israel and Palestinians. • Netanyahu full text

Jordan's King Hussein "There has been enough destruction." • AUDIO: Hussein says it's time to move past violence and unrest. • Hussein full text