Mazel tov: Olmert telephones Rudd

[Kiwi]

Mazel tov: Olmert telephones Rudd

naomi levin

ISRAELI Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has congratulated Kevin Rudd on his election victory and both leaders have committed to a meeting during the next three years.

Olmert telephoned Rudd at his Brisbane home on Wednesday evening and, according to a government source, the pair had a pleasant conversation where Olmert offered his congratulations for Rudd’s election success.

Rudd and Olmert spoke about last week’s Annapolis peace talks and the new PM wished Olmert well in the continuing peace process.

The Israeli leader also inquired about Mike Kelly, the new Member for Eden Monaro, whose wife is a cousin of Olmert.
 
While there are no plans for an official meeting, Rudd committed to visiting the Middle East during his term and indicated that would include a stop in Israel. Both prime ministers agreed that they would catch up at the next international meeting where both are present.

The government source also confirmed that Rudd commented on the strength of the relationship between the two countries.

Rudd has visited Israel twice previously, in 2003 and again in 2005. He has clearly stated his and his party’s support for a two-state solution in Israel and the right of Israelis to live behind secure and clearly-defined borders.

Other world leaders, including Bush, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono have also called Rudd to congratulate him on his victory. Rudd’s first trip abroad as Prime Minister will be to Indonesia - the world’s most populous Muslim nation - for the Bali climate change meeting.

http://www.ajn.com.au/news/news.asp?pgID=4576