Israel-Turkey relations important for region, says Herzog as he leaves for Ankara

President Isaac Herzog tells reporters that relations between Israel and Turkey are important for the stability of the entire region as he departs for a rare trip to Turkey.

“Israel-Turkey relations are important for Israel, important for Turkey, and important for the whole region. And for the first time in many years, there will be a visit to Turkey,” Herzog says.

“We will not agree on everything, and the relationship between Israel and Turkey has certainly known ups and downs and not-so-simple moments in recent years, but we shall try to restart our relations and build them in a measured and cautious manner, and with mutual respect between our states,” he tells reporters before boarding the flight.

“I always emphasize that my vision is that Jews, Muslims, and Christians will live in peace in our region in a manner that will bring them prosperity and perfect lives,” he says.

Herzog says the diplomatic goals of his visit are completely coordinated with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid.

Herzog’s trip marks the highest-level visit by an Israeli official since former prime minister Ehud Olmert made the trip in 2008, and is being seen as an important step toward rekindling the two countries’ relationship.

The president is set to land in Ankara this afternoon and will hold a series of meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who will also host Herzog and his wife Michal Herzog for a state dinner.