On Sunday, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog began his first visit to the United Arab Emirates, the latest high-profile diplomatic visit between the two countries since relations were repaired.
It comes after Naftali Bennett’s visit last month, the first by an Israeli prime minister, during which the two sides are said to have discussed Iran’s nuclear program, which is a major security worry for Israel.
Herzog and the first lady landed in Abu Dhabi about 0800 GMT, when he met with Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, according to the president’s office.
“Beginning the first visit by an Israeli president in the United Arab Emirates,” Herzog tweeted upon arrival. “We were delighted and deeply moved by the warm welcome in Abu Dhabi.”
The visit comes 16 months after the affluent Gulf kingdom established diplomatic relations with Israel, becoming the third Arab country after Egypt and Jordan to do so.
According to the official Emirati news agency WAM, Herzog also met with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan in the presidential palace.
“Sheikh Mohammed escorted him to the podium, and the national anthems of the two countries were played, while 21 rounds of artillery were fired to welcome his visit,” it said.
During the two-day trip, Herzog was scheduled to visit Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, the UAE prime minister and ruler of Dubai.
