Gabi Ashkenazi
Gabi AshkenaziOlivier Fitoussi/Flash90

Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi (Blue and White) on Saturday said US President Donald Trump's announcement on the intention to establish full diplomatic relations between Israel and Bahrain represents another meaningful landmark in the effort to foster normalization between Israel and nations of the region.

"I thank the Bahraini people and their leadership, and eagerly look forward to continuing to work together," Ashkenazi said. "The relations between the two nations are strategically and economically significant, and I am sure that we can continue combining our efforts to preserve regional stability and achieve accomplishments for both of our countries and for the welfare of our citizens. They are the ones who must be at the center of our efforts."

"I would like to thank President Trump and his government for the unwavering efforts that have led to this achievement. Thanks to the involvement of the American government, we are able to bring about dramatic and strategic changes in the region, and for that, the Israeli people say 'thank you.'

"This is also an opportunity to thank the staff of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who have worked quietly over many years, with wisdom and professionalism, to advance relations with the Gulf nations. We will continue working with dedication to bring about the creation of warm diplomatic ties between other countries and Israel."

Bahrain's Foreign MInister Abdullatif Al-Zayani spoke on the phone with Ashkenazi on Saturday, Bahrain's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

According to the statement, the two ministers emphasized in the phone call the need to move their countries' relationship forward and promote peace and stability in the region.