Press Release

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF ISRAEL DISCUSSED WITH FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER GRAHAM THE PEACE PROCESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND BILATERAL ECONOMIC ISSUES

Mr. Ehud Ulmert, Deputy Prime Minister of the State of Israel and Minister of Industry, Trade and Labour concluded a cordial and constructive meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham, yesterday in Toronto.

Mr. Ulmert briefed Minister Graham on the current developments in the Middle East,

the need for a security fence to foil Palestinian terror attacks and the expectations from the new Palestinian Authority government to act against terrorism. Minister Ulmert reaffirmed the Israeli government commitment to peace with the Palestinians and willingness to assist the new Palestinian Prime Minister in the implementation of the ‘Road Map’.

In addition to security issues the two Ministers discussed the need to expand bilateral economic relations, Israel’s future membership in the OECD and the promotion of Canada-Israel cooperation in technological research and development. Canada’s contribution to Peace-Building in the Middle East was also deliberated on, in particular, the creation of industrial parks for peace and prosperity between Israel and the Palestinians.

For further information you may contact the Embassy of Israel: Ofir Gendelman, Spokesperson, (613) 567-6450 x. 228 or Ben Forer, Press and Economic Affairs Officer, (613) 567-6450 x. 238. www.embassyofisrael.ca