Israel, Cyprus sign energy exploration deal

Israel and Cyprus agreed Thursday to launch a joint natural gas and oil exploration venture in their adjoining territorial waters. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Cypriot President Demetris Christofias inked the deal during Netanyahu's visit to Nicosia, which was the first by an Israeli leader ever. The deal will also allow Israel to use Cyprus' air space and territorial waters for aerial and naval search and rescue drills. The Prime Minister's Office said that the deal was inked as part of the two nations' efforts to "strengthen the improving ties between the two nations, as well as boost energy security in both countries." Netanyahu traveled to Cyprus with a mission of 20 high-level government officials, including Energy and Water Minister Uzi Landau and the directors of Israel's National Security and National Economic councils. The agreement also means to promote " bilateral tourism and trade, agricultural and health cooperation, and research into the eastern Mediterranean," the Prime Minister's Office said. In January, Israel and Cyprus signed two defense agreements, which Cypriot Minister of Defense Demetris Eliades said "sets the basis for the further development of relations in the area of defense cooperation." Reuters contributed to this report Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter