News In Brief

US, Israel set up panel to increase cooperation

President Reagan and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir ended talks Tuesday by announcing the creation of a joint political-military committee to examine ways to enhance cooperation.

Joint military maneuvers and stockpiling of US military supplies in Israel are among the possible results. Mr. Reagan said the committee would give priority to dealing with the threat posed by increased Soviet involvement in the Middle East.

The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to the May 17 accords under which Israel agreed to withdraw its troops from Lebanon if Syrian and Palestinian fighters pulled out as well. The accords are expected to be the focus of US talks with Lebanese President Amin Gemayel, who arrives here today.

The joint political-military group would meet twice a year, starting in January in Washington. Economic aid would include negotiation of a much-sought free-trade agreement.

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