The establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and Bahrain is one more important step towards peace in the region. I met my Bahraini counterpart Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani yesterday in Berlin, and today I am happy about the good news.

I am confident that this agreement will also give new impetus to the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. Germany and the EU are reaffirming the goal of a negotiated two-state solution as the basis for a just and lasting peace. We will continue to do our utmost to achieve it.