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In all my meetings and talks with the President of France, I recognized a deep understanding of Israel's security needs and the complex challenges with which it is faced, as well as a solid, unshakable personal commitment to Israel's security and the preservation of our qualitative edge in the region. In the European Union and in all international forums, France, under the leadership of President Sarkozy, has expressed a supportive and fair stand on issues relating to Israel's policies in the region, and stood by us in times of trial.
France's contribution to Israel's strength and security in the first decades following the establishment of our state was immense, and in recent years, the relations between us have expanded and deepened in an almost unprecedented manner in all fields. The cooperation in the fields of security, economy, culture, trade, science and technology, and many other fields, is exceptional. President Sarkozy's spirit of friendship and support is evident in all of these fields, and is instrumental to the upgrading of relations between us.
President Sarkozy arrives in Israel with a group of senior Government Ministers. This constitutes an excellent opportunity to institutionalize the bilateral relations between our countries, through the establishment of a regular strategic dialogue and inter-ministerial mechanisms for coordination and exchange of opinions. Also accompanying the President is a large group of prominent businesspeople from various fields, who will hold meetings with heads of the Israeli economy and discuss joint projects, for the benefit of both countries. I support the President's initiative to include this important delegation, which will enable us to explore additional means to advance the trade relations between us.
I wish you, Mr. President, and you, Mrs. Sarkozy, an enjoyable and memorable trip to Israel, and thank you again for your understanding and friendship.
Thank you very much.
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