Prime Minister Ehud Olmert met today  with Croatian President Stjepan Mesic, who is visiting in Israel.  The two men discussed various Middle Eastern issues and processes. 

Prime Minister Olmert welcomed Croatian President Mesic to Israel and commended his refusal of an invitation to visit Iran.  The latter noted that his nation has experienced wars and that it would be inconceivable to visit a country that denies the Holocaust, which he saw with his own eyes. 
 
Prime Minister Olmert said: "I can understand how you feel and I agree with your remarks that peace and an end to conflicts can give hope to all peoples.  We aspire to reach a true peace with all of our neighbors and are making many efforts toward this goal.  However, against global terrorism and against intentions to destroy the State of Israel – the world cannot be indifferent.  I appreciate your determined stance against Iran; you are part of the broad international community that says 'No' to vain and evil words."
 
The two leaders agreed to continue and strengthen bilateral cooperation.