Relations between France and Israel have been growing smoothly and have, since the election of President Nicolas Sarkozy a year ago, become somewhat a keen to a "love story," Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said in an interview broadcast Tuesday.
"This is not only a honeymoon, it is a love story. I think that Nicolas Sarkozy is a very good friend of Israel," said Olmert, who was speaking Monday during the interview that was broadcast on leading French radio channels such as RFI, Europe 1 and France Inter.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy is expected to conduct an official visit to Israel in June to coincide with the 60th anniversary since the founding of the Jewish state, according to French diplomatic sources.
"Sometimes, there have been some tensions, and it has been a little difficult. But, thank God, these relations are currently at the level where they need to be," said the Israeli prime minister, attributing the development to the efforts of "a friendly president, a friendly government and a friendly people."
"We hope that these relations will continue to develop in this direction," said Olmert, stressing that he "personally" appreciated the input of President Nicolas Sarkozy.
"Even before he was elected president, he told me that he wanted to come to Israel. When he was elected, he repeated that he wanted to come over. Now he has decided to join us during celebrations marking the 60th anniversary since the founding of the state of Israel," said the prime minister.
"France has always been a great friend of Israel and the Jewish people. The Jews have flourished in France: They have played a part in all the great achievements in the country. They characterize the French culture, they are found among the intellectuals..." said Olmert.
"We have always had good relations with France," said the Israeli prime minister, echoing remarks made earlier by Israeli President Shimon Peres during a recent state visit to France.
Addressing reporters shortly after arrival, the Israeli president was quoted as saying that "no any other country has ever helped Israel as much as France" adding that "bilateral relations between the two countries were currently at their best."
"This visit summarizes 60 years of the existence of Israel, a time in which France played an extremely important role. I'm coming to say thank you. During the Occupation, France saved many Jews. And then, following the birth of Israel, France helped us to acquire arms to defend ourselves," said Peres.
Commenting on the state of relations between Israel and France since the election of President Sarkozy, the Israeli head of state said that "they could not be any better. Nicolas Sarkozy has reinvigorated trans-Atlantic ties by reengaging the United States and has also given a new impetus to relations with Israel," said he.
Source: Xinhua
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