In one of the periodic visits of the German foreign minister to Israel, Mr. Klaus Kinkel exchanged views with the prime minister. On the eve of Germany's reunification, Israel wanted speedy German implementation of legislation against the Arab economic boycott and a tougher German stand on resurgent neo-Nazism. Text:
Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin met yesterday (Wednesday), 18.11.92, with German Foreign Minister Dr. Klaus Kinkel, in his office. The two discussed the peace process in the Middle East, and Prime Minister Rabin reviewed for his guest the progress in the talks being held in Washington with the Arab delegations. The German foreign minister displayed special interest in Syria and its positions on the resolution of the dispute in the Middle East. Mr. Rabin told his guest that Assad has yet to make a step to convince the two nations of his desire to reach peace with Israel. Even so, the prime minister emphasized, we have embarked on a course that we cannot desist from. He expressed his hope that despite the ups and downs that are to be expected in the negotiations, we will be in better shape in another six to eight months. Dr. Kinkel said that Germany is following developments in the negotiations with interest and with appreciation, and that he wishes Israel success in the talks.
Bilateral issues were also discussed in the meeting, including strengthening industrial and trade cooperation between the two countries, ways of improving the trade balance between them, increasing the mutual fund for research and development, and German aid in the absorption of immigrants to Israel in the areas of job training and retraining. The prime minister stressed the great importance Israel attaches to speedy German implementation of legislation against the Arab boycott and noted that this legislation will have a positive effect on similar propensities both in Europe and outside Europe. The visiting minister promised that there will be no further delay in implementing the law.
Concerning the violent incidents against foreigners in Germany, Dr. Kinkel responded that the German government will use all legal means at its disposal to prevent phenomena of this kind. He observed that the majority of Germans are repulsed by this phenomenon and are aware of the dangers inherent in it. The guest said that Israel and the Jews have sound reason for concern, and promised that he would do everything to overcome these biases, as they also endanger Germany's future.