The High Representative/Vice President Josep Borrell met with Foreign Minister of Israel Eli Cohen in New York, in the margins of the 78th session of the United Nations’ General Assembly on 20 September 2023. 

The HR/VP informed Minister Cohen about the results of the ministerial meeting he co-chaired on 18 September, together with Saudi Arabia, the League of Arab States, Egypt, and Jordan, to explore ways to revive Middle East Peace efforts. He underlined that the “Peace Day Effort” that was launched aims at developing a positive vision with broad support from the international community to help advance peace, stability, and security in the region. 

The HR/VP stressed the importance he attaches to engaging with Israel, one of EU’s closest partners in the region, as closely as possible and keeping it informed of the ‘Peace Day Effort’. The HR/VP recalled that the European Union is seeking an open and constructive exchange with Israel on the Middle East Peace Process. The EU and its Member States remain firmly committed to the Two-State Solution and stand ready to contribute to a peace process.

They also discussed bilateral relations, as well as regional issues. 

HR/VP Borrell affirmed that the EU is keen to expand further the strong cooperation with Israel. The European Union and Israel stressed their will to continue deepening their bilateral dialogue, including during the next meeting of the Association Council, which should be convened soon.

They looked forward to the upcoming visit of HRVP Borrell to Israel at the beginning of December. The High Representative will also visit Palestine on this occasion.