Ismael Cem in Israel

Turkish Foreign Minister Ismael Cem on Monday started an official visit to Israel to strengthen relations between the two countries.

In an arrival statement in Jerusalem, Cem expressed hope his visit would further develop relations between Turkey and Israel. Cem is to meet during his visit with Israeli Premier Netanyahu, President Ezer Weizman and Israeli businessmen.

The Turkish minister will also visit the Palestinian self-rule area and hold talks with Palestinian President Yasser Arafat. His three-day visit came at the invitation of Netanyahu.