Netanyahu congratulates Macron in post-election phone call

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday called Emmanuel Macron to congratulate him on his victory in the French presidential elections and pledged to work closely with him.

“The two leaders discussed, among other things, continued cooperation in the fight against terrorism and the promotion of economic and technological ties between Israel and France,” a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said.

During their phone call, the two agreed to meet soon.

Macron, a centrist, won the presidency on Sunday with 66 percent of the vote, beating his far-right rival Marine Le Pen of the National Front party. He will be sworn in next Sunday.

Macron will be France’s youngest-ever president and was a virtual unknown before his two-year stint as economy minister, the launchpad for his presidential bid.

In a separate statement immediately following Macron’s victory on Sunday, Netanyahu said he was “looking forward” to working with the new French leader.

“One of the greatest threats facing the world today is extremist Islamic terror, which carries out attacks in Paris, Jerusalem and many other cities around the world. Israel and France have a longstanding alliance and I am sure that we will continue to deepen our connections,” he said.

Earlier Monday, President Reuven Rivlin also congratulated Macron. He thanked him for his strong opposition to anti-Semitism and offered Israel’s help in countering terrorism.

“I want to thank you for your strong stance against anti-Semitism, and all forms of racism, which have once again raised their ugly heads around the world,” Rivlin wrote in an official letter.

“Standing up to such voices of intolerance and hatred, defending our citizens against vicious acts of terror, is a task of paramount importance that stands before us all, and Israel is your partner in this mission,” he told Macron, a 39-year-old former investment banker who has never held elected office before.

“I know that on your visit here in 2015, you were greatly impressed by Israeli innovation and technologies,” Rivlin said. “I share your deep belief in innovation as an engine for both economic and social prosperity for all peoples. Moreover, our growing cooperation and partnerships in this area offer a solid foundation for the ongoing deepening and strengthening of the strong ties between our two peoples, and two countries.”

On the eve of the election Macron stated in a French television interview that he backs a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and that unilaterally recognizing Palestine would cause instability and would harm France’s relations with Israel.

Le Pen, 48, had portrayed the ballot as a contest between the “globalists” represented by her rival — those in favor of open trade, immigration and shared sovereignty — against the “nationalists” who defend strong borders and national identities.

“I hope that the relations of friendship and cooperation between France and Israel will continue to expand and strengthen under your presidency.” Rivlin said “Allow me to wish you much success and personal satisfaction in this highly significant and challenging role as leader of France.”

Stuart Weiner contributed to this report.