The new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel, Ismail Khaldi, has started work in Turkmenistan, presenting his credentials to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov today, the Watan news program of the Turkmen television reported.

The head of state congratulated Ismail Khaldi on his appointment to a responsible post and wished him great success in his work.

Continuing the meeting, the President of Turkmenistan and the Israeli diplomat exchanged views on the prospects for bilateral cooperation, taking into account its multidimensional potential. As noted, relations between Turkmenistan and Israel are expanding and strengthening on the basis of the principles of equality, mutual respect and trust, as evidenced by the ongoing inter-MFA consultations, exchange of experience in the fields of healthcare, science, education, as well as mutual visits.

The head of state noted with satisfaction the productive nature of the Turkmen-Israeli cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and its specialized structures, which in turn is aimed at maintaining peace, security and sustainable development in the region and the world. In this context, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed gratitude to the Government of Israel for supporting the initiatives of Turkmenistan.

The parties also discussed issues of intensifying cooperation in a number of key areas, taking into account the interests of the two states and the prospects that are opening up. One of the priority vectors of fruitful cooperation was the trade and economic sphere. In this regard, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the importance of holding forums and meetings with the participation of representatives of state and private structures.

Agriculture is among the topical areas of bilateral relations. At the same time, the interest of Turkmenistan was expressed in getting acquainted with Israel's experience in the agro-industrial complex, establishing cooperation in the field of the latest technologies for the rational use of water resources and desalination.

The subject of discussion was the deepening of productive contacts in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, which plays a key role in the interstate dialogue. In this context, the head of state noted the need to organize Days of Culture, active participation of representatives of the two countries in scientific and educational forums and competitions. At the same time, the importance of using the tourism potential to get acquainted with the rich historical and cultural heritage of our states was discussed.

At the end of the meeting, the Israeli plenipotentiary assured that, for his part, he would contribute to the strengthening and deepening of traditionally friendly relations between the two states.

As Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Turkmenistan, Ismail Khaldi replaced Ms. Bet-Eden Kait, who had previously completed her diplomatic mission in this Central Asian country.

Diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and the State of Israel were established on October 8, 1993.