America News Agency

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Baron Divavesi Waqa had informed him of Israel's acceptance as a partner of the forum following a decision made at a meeting of member country leaders held in Palau.

Saar said the development followed his visit to Fiji in June. He explained that during the visit, he had met with the forum's Secretary-General and submitted Israel's request to join the forum.

Noting that strengthening relations with Pacific island nations is among his objectives, Saar stated that Israel had opened its embassy in Fiji this year and that the diplomatic mission also serves nine other Pacific island countries that maintain friendly relations with Israel.