Ashkenazi: UAE's first ambassador to Israel 'another historic day in the Middle East'
Israel's foreign minister said it was giant step forward in strengthening peace between two countries, peoples
Israel's Foreign Affairs Minister Gabi Ashkenazi welcomed the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) first-ever ambassador to the country, Mohammad Mahmoud Al Khajah, saying that the Gulf state has an important role to play in the Middle East's development.
"We have a historic opportunity to exemplify a model of a warm peace between two nations and two peoples," Ashkenazi said.
"The opening of Israel's diplomatic missions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai and the reciprocal establishment of an Emirati embassy in Israel, are critical developments in establishing bilateral relations and advancing peace," he added.
At the end of the personal meeting between the Ashkenazi and Al Khajah, a first working meeting took place between the political staff of the Emirati embassy in Israel and a Foreign Ministry team.
The Emirati ambassador landed in Israel earlier today ahead of a three-day visit, which will include presenting his credentials to the country's President Reuven Rivlin at a ceremony at the head of state's official Jerusalem residence.