JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday the resumption of diplomatic ties between his country and mainly Muslim Chad on an official visit to Chad, the first after a nearly 50-year break.
Speaking at a news conference with Chadian President Idriss Deby in the capital N'Djamena, Netanyahu said the move to resume ties was a breakthrough in the development of Israel's relations with the Muslim world.
"It is very important for Israel that a Muslim-majority country like Chad is seeking Israel's friendship, and we are pleased that others are following you," Netanyahu said. Netanyahu did not specify the countries.
For his part, Deby said he was pleased to sign several agreements between Israel and Chad, including the resumption of diplomatic relations.
"Chad is interested in strengthening cooperation in several areas with Israel," he said, adding that "this friendship will not be at the expense of the Palestinian cause." We support progress in the peace process between Israel and its neighbors and the Arab world, and call for a peace based on Signed agreements, and Israel's right to stability alongside a Palestinian state. "
Before leaving Israel, Netanyahu told reporters at the airport that this visit is historic to a Muslim country bordering Libya and Sudan, and that it is part of the start of Israeli relations with Arab and Muslim countries.
He added that this development angered the Palestinians and Iranians who tried to fail but failed, and added that more relations with other countries will be revealed soon.
Netanyahu's visit to Chad came amid heightened security measures, with Israeli newspapers reporting that two Israeli Hercules planes landed at the airport in the Chadian capital N'Djamena and were carrying equipment to protect Netanyahu.