Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi stressed that the historic peace accord between the United Arab Emirates and Israel “will lead to great change in the entire middle East and will help achieve peace, stability and security in the region.”
The deal will also pave the way for cooperation between countries in greater fields, he predicted in remarks to the UAE’s Etihad newspaper on Tuesday.
He also described Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed “a true leader who leads his people to prosperity and success.”
On whether Tuesday’s peace accord could lead to a comprehensive solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Ashkenazi said: “The agreement sharpens the understanding that the time has come to move forward, and that we must not remain stuck in the past permanently and thus make a great contribution to a better understanding of what it takes to achieve peace in the region.”
He called on the Palestinian leadership “to internalize reality, show responsibility and leadership as revealed by UAE leaders and return to the negotiating table.”
In a message to the Emirati people, the minister said: “Israel wants peace and wants to work with you for a better future for generations to come. I would like to tell you that we welcome you as guests in Israel. I invite you to visit Israel and enjoy the natural sights, culture and Israeli spirit.”
