The Israel Government announced today the appointment of Nathan Peled. Mapam leader, to be its Minister to Bulgaria.
Though Mr. Peled’s selection was made several months ago, it is understood, the Israel Government was holding off naming a Minister while Sofia delayed payment of indemnification for the shooting down of an El Al passenger plane in 1955. However, since the case has been moved to the International Court of Justice, it was decided to proceed with the announcement of a Minister to Sofia.
Observers here expected the appointment to lead to an improvement in relations between the two states. The naming of a left-wing personality as Israel’s representative in a capital of a Soviet-oriented state represents a revival of a tradition which is several years old. It dates back to the time when Israel Barzilai, Israels current Minister for Health, represented his government in Warsaw.
Mr. Barzilai has maintained his friendly contacts with Polish Government circles and is currently in Warsaw heading a delegation of Israeli doctors returning a visit to Israel of Polish medical men.
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