Minister Haim Katz has returned from a groundbreaking diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia, making history as the first Israeli minister to set foot in the Kingdom. During his visit, Katz met with leaders from countries with which Israel has no official relations, marking a significant step towards enhancing diplomatic ties between nations.
Minister Katz, who also serves as the Minister of Tourism, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of his visit, stating, “We made a crack in the wall.” He highlighted the efforts of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in upgrading Israel’s position in the United Nations Tourism Organization, which played a pivotal role in opening the gates of Saudi Arabia for the minister.
“I worked tirelessly to upgrade Israel’s position in the United Nations Tourism Organization, and it became an active partner with an official role,” Katz stated. He emphasized that tourism is not only an economic asset but also a bridge for dialogue and peace between nations. The minister noted the curiosity and desire for cooperation evident in every conversation he had with leaders from countries without official relations with Israel.
Israel’s new status in the international community paved the way for more visits to the Kingdom. Minister Shlomo Karai of Communications is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia next week to attend an international postal conference. This visit serves as another step towards building stronger relations with the Kingdom and expanding opportunities for cooperation.
As the first Israeli minister to visit Saudi Arabia, Katz’s visit contributes to the ongoing efforts of the Israeli government in fostering diplomatic relations with nations in the region. This historic visit symbolizes a significant milestone in the political landscape of the Middle East, indicating a potential shift towards greater cooperation and peace in the future.