President Herzog's visit to Turkiye 'historic,' says Israeli Parliament deputy speaker

ANTALYA, Turkiye

Israeli Parliament's deputy speaker said that President Issac Herzog's visit to Turkiye was "historic" and the "solid partnership" benefits all in the Middle East on all issues, including the economy, diplomacy and other areas. 

"I think that we are all very, very optimistic about the positive change that is happening in these weeks about the visit, which is an historic visit," Ghaida Rinawie Zoabi, who is also a Meretz Party deputy, told Anadolu Agency on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.

She said Israelis were "really excited" to see that there will be cooperation in areas such as tourism, economic development, trade and energy.

Both countries are moving forward into a new era, she said.

Zoabi said there will be more steps in the future and she hopes to see Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu visit Israel.

She said Herzog’s visit to Ankara was covered by all media outlets in Israel because Israelis were excited that Turkish-Israeli cooperation would send a peaceful message to the Middle East in general.

Regarding the Russia-Ukraine crisis, Zoabi said she believes it is "partially" about energy.

"So when you have neighboring countries collaborating and cooperating on issues of energy, then you will have a much more sustainable home and the more peaceful geopolitical situation in the Middle East," she said.

Asked about being the first Arab woman politician to be appointed Deputy Speaker in parliament, she responded with a message.

"My message to younger women that want to be politicians is do not afraid to demand what you want," she said.

​​​​​​​* writing by Rabia Iclal Turan