Ehud Barak unexpectedly met Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf.
The Israeli defense minister, in Paris on Tuesday ahead of talks with the French leadership, encountered Musharraf at his hotel.
According to Yediot Achronot, the two ex-generals – whose countries have no formal relations – exchanged pleasantries.
Barak praised Musharraf, who made Pakistan a key U.S. ally in the war on terror, for helping “ensure the world’s security.” Musharraf wished Barak and Israel good luck in peace efforts with the Palestinians.
From Paris, Barak travels to Switzerland to attend the annual economic summit in Davos. Musharraf also will be attending the summit.
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