William Hague
צילום: רויטרס
Lieberman invites British FM to Israel
Foreign minister congratulates incoming British counterpart on his new post. Two politicians jest about difficulties in forming complex coalitions. Lieberman impressed by Hague's proficiency in Middle East
Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman spoke on the telephone Thursday with incoming British Foreign Minsiter William Hague and congratulated him on his new appointment. Minister Lieberman told his new British counterpart that the recent elections in Britain were fascinating and that he followed them closely.
Hague, who is slated to be a more Israel-friendly foreign minister that his predecessor David Miliband, said that a stable coalition was formed with strong support from Parliament even though there has not been a coalition government for some time in Britain. He said that the incoming government will be an active and good one.
Lieberman joked light-heartedly with Hague that Israel has much experience with putting together complex governments, and added that he would be happy to share his experiences with him. Lieberman also invited his counterpart to Israel.
Lieberman already met Hague during his first visit to London as foreign minister when Hague was serving as the shadow foreign secretary for the Conservative Party. The two had a good conversation, and Lieberman was impressed by Hague's proficiency in Middle East affairs.
In the past year, Israel had no small amount of friction with the Labor government led by Gordon Brown and Foreign Minister Miliband, including a controversy over the use of forged British passports in the assassination of Hamas leader Mahmoud al-Mabhouh.
Hague responded to the incident in moderation, saying that "there is no reason to humiliate" the Israeli ambassador. However, he noted that he would like to receive clear assurances from Israel that it does not use British passports to serve its needs.
