JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israel’s new ambassador to Egypt presented his credentials at a ceremony in Cairo.
Yaacov Amitai is the first Israeli envoy named to Egypt since the ousting of Hosni Mubarak one year ago.
The Israeli national anthem was played at Monday’s ceremony, as is customary, as were the national anthems of the 13 other ambassadors that presented their credentials to Field Marshal Mohammad Hussein Tantawi, chairman of the Supreme Council of the Egyptian Armed Forces, according to Israel’s Foreign Ministry.
The Foreign Ministry said the presentation of credentials was held in "a cordial atmosphere."
During speeches at the ceremony, both Amitai and Tantawi emphasized the importance of the peace agreement and cooperation between the two countries.
"I will do everything I can to enhance understanding and to foster cooperation between Israel and Egypt," Amitai said.
Amitai replaces Yitzhak Levanon, who left his post three months ago. The Israeli Embassy building in Cairo has been closed since it was attacked in September by Egyptian rioters.
