(27.März) The President congratulated Mr Netanyahu on the victory of the Likud party, which he heads, in Israel’s early parliamentary election and wished success in forming the country’s new government.

Mr Putin and Mr Netanyahu discussed key issues in Russian-Israeli relations and expressed their mutual desire to continue developing ties in various areas, including humanitarian contacts, especially in connection with the upcoming celebrations of the 70th anniversary of Victory in World War II.

The two leaders exchanged views on current regional issues, in particular the Middle East peace process and issues related to talks on the Iranian nuclear programme.