Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Greece - Israel: Forging New Ties


Greece and Israel forged new ties, and wrote a whole new chapter in their bilateral relations, in mid-August, when Prime Minister George Papandreou and his counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu agreed that the two countries should cooperate in a  number of sectors.

The first visit to Greece by a standing Israeli prime minister resulted in the formation of a joint Greek-Israeli committee (August 17) to examine ways of strengthening ties between the two countries in a gamut of fields.

The committee is looking at cooperation on economic issues, investments, tourism, the exchange of technical know-how, renewable energy sources, new farm technologies, and security. Further development of defence relations and cooperation in the security sector were discussed by the two leaders, during their talks on the island of Poros [see photo below].

Papandreou also offered once more to facilitate the Middle East peace process moving again: "It is necessary that direct talks between Israel and the Palestinians begin immediately," he said. "This is the most useful way to achieve viable peace. We will contribute in any way we can."

Kathimerini daily: In search of closer ties & Greece is set for Israeli PM’s visit; Athens Plus: Greece and Israel seize the opportunity; Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Greece-Israel Bilateral Relations

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