Vatican, Israeli delegations meet to discuss bilateral issues
January 30, 2013: The Bilateral Permanent Working Commission between the Holy See
and the State of Israel met on Tuesday (29 January) in Jerusalem at the Plenary level,
to continue negotiations concerning bilateral issues. The Vatican delegation was
led by Bishop Ettore Balestrero, Under-Secretary of the Holy See for the Relations
with States and the Israeli delegation was headed by Daniel AYALON, Deputy Minister
of Foreign Affairs. A joint statement released by the parties said negotiations
took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. The Commission took notice
that significant progress was made towards the conclusion of the Agreement. The
Holy See's delegation thanked Deputy Foreign Minister Ayalon for his contribution
to the negotiations and wished him success in his new endeavours. Both the Parties
have agreed on future steps and to hold the next Plenary meeting in June 2013 at Vatican
City.