'Golden opportunity to boost ties’
Next ambassador to Egypt Shalom Cohen says he hopes for new era in diplomatic relations between two nations
JERUSALEM - Just a week after Egypt returned its ambassador to Israel, the Foreign Ministry has nominated Shalom Cohen for the post of Israel's new ambassador to Cairo.
Cohen, who currently serves as the ministry’s deputy director general for Middle Eastern affairs, says he is optimistic about his prospects of success in the new post.
The newly designated nominee, who was selected by Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom, must now be granted cabinet approval, followed by Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's blessing, before he can take up the post.
According to Cohen, a “golden opportunity” for warming relations between the two countries has presented itself.
“I intend to take full advantage of the new leaf that has been turned to maximize relations between the two peoples as well,” he said.
He added that the warming of relations between the two countries is beginning to trickle down to the masses.
"The Egyptian people are interested in cooperation with Israel," he said.
Cohen said he believes ties between the two countries are of great significance.
“Cooperation is vital for the stability of the region. The new Egyptian ambassador to Israel has also mentioned this. His presence here and mine in Cairo can contribute significantly to this matter," he said.
“My team and myself are embarking on this mission realistically,” Cohen said, noting that negotiations with the Palestinians will also benefit from the exchange of ambassadors.
“All sides are aware of the importance of the warming of relations. The dialog between the two countries is developing, which leads to joint activity and communication,” he said.
'Fewer anti-Semitic caricatures in the media'
According to Cohen, one of the main missions he will be undertaking in his role as ambassador would be to help bring Israeli tourists back to Egypt.
“The terror attack in Taba severely damaged tourism and relations," he said. "However, Egypt is interested in boosting Israeli tourism, just as we are interested in promoting Egyptian tourism to Israel. This also depends on tightening security measures.”
Moreover, Cohen noted that he would act to further cooperation and commercial ties between the countries.
“We shall reinforce our staff at the embassy with an additional person who will oversee economic affairs and help guide Israeli businessmen investing in Egypt,” he said.
Cohen also referred to the Egyptian media and the ongoing reports of incitement against Israel.
Cohen said that, fortunately, he sees considerable improvement in this area. The Egyptian government is working hard to minimize incitement against Israel, he said.
“There are fewer anti-Semitic caricatures in the media, although it has not completely disappeared,” he said.
“There is a strong opposition that continues to incite but the president’s spirit is certainly guiding things in the right direction,” he said.
