World Bulletin / News Desk

Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon made an unannounced visit to Azerbaijan on Wednesday, becoming the first ever Israeli defense minister to visit the Caucasus nation.

Ya’alon met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov and Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov, as well as other Azeri officials in Baku as part of a two-day trip.

The Israeli Defense Ministry said in a statement that he is there to discuss strengthening Israel-Azeri bilateral relations and strategies for regional issues.

It was reported by Kosher Press that Ya’alon plans to attend an inauguration of the Israeli pavilion at the “Adex” international defense industry exhibition. 

“Bilateral relations between us are fruitful, and there is a strategic relationship between the countries and joint endeavors in various fields,” Ya’alon said upon arrival.

Ya'alon is also due to visit representatives of Azerbaijan’s Jewish community.