Israel Premier David Ben Gurion met today with the new Soviet Ambassador, Michael Bodrov, over tea at the Sharon Hotel and discussed informally a number of political and economic aspects of the Middle East problems.
Another informal talk will follow–the third time the two will have met since Mr. Bodrov’s arrival a few days ago. No other Soviet envoy to Israel ever held informal meetings with Premier Ben Gurion.
At the same time, it was indicated here that talks which Ambassador Bodrov held with various Israel officials since his arrival in this country have all been general, rather than specific, in nature. Israeli policy makers, it is understood, see no value in a basic discussion with Moscow on the influence of Soviet plans in the Middle East. However, they are of the opinion that while it is better to avoid such fundamental discussions as the influence of Soviet policy on the Arab-Israel dispute, there is room for improvement of relations between the USSR and Israel.
Practical improvements which may eventually contribute to an easement of tension on basic issues would include a resumption of trade and a cultural exchange program between the two nations, it is held here.
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