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23:02 GMT
WASHINGTON, Dec 18 (KUNA) -- US Vice President Mike Pence is delaying a planned trip to Egypt and Israel in order to stay in Washington for a vote on tax cut legislation, according to the White House Monday.
The announcement comes just over a week after President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
Earlier this month, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he would not meet with Pence because of this announcement.
"The largest tax cut in American history is a landmark accomplishment for President Trump and a relief to millions of hardworking Americans," said Pence's press secretary Alyssa Farah.
"The Vice President is committed to seeing the tax cut through to the finish line. The Vice President looks forward to traveling to Egypt and Israel in January."
Pence is now expected to travel to the Middle East during the week of January 14, according to media reports citing senior White House officials. (end)
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