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NATO officially recognizes Israeli representative

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), also known as the North Atlantic Alliance, will recognize an official Israeli representative and the military alliance and will grant Israel a permanent office at its headquarters in Brussels.

By: Aryeh Savir, World Israel News

“NATO informed Israel this evening that Israel will be able to open an office at the organization’s headquarters in Brussels and complete the process of accepting the credentials of its representative to NATO,” Israel’s Foreign Ministry stated Tuesday.

“The announcement comes after lengthy Israeli diplomatic efforts by the Foreign Ministry, the Defense Ministry and the National Security Agency. Israel wishes to thank its allies in the organization for their support and efforts on the issue,” the statement read.

Israel is not a member of the 28 member military alliance, but has enjoyed military cooperation with the body in a number of fields and is a partner of the Mediterranean Dialogue, a NATO outreach program with seven friendly nations bordering the Mediterranean.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the announcement and said it proved Israel enjoyed strong bonds with countries and international organizations.

“This is an important step that helps Israel’s security. It is further proof to the status of Israel and the willingness of many organizations to cooperate with us in the field of security,” Netanyahu said.