Putin, Bennett Hold 1st Call, Agree on Face-to-Face Meeting

Russian President Vladimir Putin held his first call with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, on Monday, and agreed to meet in the near future.

Bennett thanked Putin for Russia’s role in the maintenance of the regional stability, according to the Israeli Prime Minister's press service.

The Prime Minister "thanked Putin for congratulations with the establishment of the government" and noted: "the historic ties between the peoples" of the two countries.

"Prime Minister Naftali Bennett talked with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time Monday," the press service said. "The Prime Minister thanked the Russian president for the role his country plays in maintenance of the regional stability."

Moreover, it affirmed that the leaders discussed a number of matters of diplomacy and security, pointing out that they agreed to meet shortly.

In addition, they addressed "the role of repatriates from Russia to Israel", with Bennett noting the "importance of them being a bridge between the two countries".

On June 13, Bennett assumed office as the 13th Prime Minister of Israel. He succeeded Benjamin Netanyahu, who led the Israeli government for 12 years.