<p>Shuneh, , May. 16 (UPI) -- Assistant U.S. Secretary of State for the Middle East William Burns said Sunday Washington recognizes Yasser Arafat as the elected leader of the Palestinians.</p>
<p>Speaking to reporters during the World Economic Forum being held in Shuneh, Jordan, Burns said the U.S. administration also recognized the "status" that Arafat enjoyed in the Palestinian territories.</p>