Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met today in Abu Dhabi with Emirati Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. It was the first-ever official meeting between leaders of the two countries. The meeting, which took place at the royal palace, lasted four hours, of which two and a half hours were one on one.

Before embarking on his trip Bennett stated, “The potential inherent in the partnership between Israel and the Emirates is enormous. Together, we have a real opportunity to create a stable, prosperous and stronger Middle East. And this is just the beginning.”

Bennett arrived to Abu Dhabi Sunday evening and was greeted at the airport by Emirati Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. They held a short meeting, discussing the importance of tolerance and of religious moderation. According to his office, Bennett told the emir, “I appreciate your warm hospitality. This is a wonderful reception. I am very excited to be here on the first official visit by an Israeli leader here. We expect to strengthen the relationship between the countries.”

Reports said the meeting focused on the Iranian threat and the two leaders also advanced a series of economic steps to deepen trade and commercial ties between Israel and the Emirates. The leaders expressed interest in establishing bilateral and regional cooperation in fields of investment, economy, trade, smart agriculture, nutrition solutions, renewable energies, high-tech and health. The leaders reportedly also discussed the importance of Dubai Expo 2020 (which took place this October) in advancing cooperation in the region.