German deputy chancellor on two-day visit to Israel

German economy minister and deputy chancellor Sigmar Gabriel is to travel to Israel today for two days of talks with president Reuven Rivlin, premier Benjamin Netanyahu and other top ministers, the economy ministry said.
Gabriel "will travel to Israel from 25-26 October. Bilateral talks are planned with president (Reuven) Rivlin, prime minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu as well as economy minister Arie Deri and energy minister Yuval Steinitz," the ministry said in a statement.
Gabriel described relations between Germany and Israel as "unique" and "steadfast".
"Israel's security is existentially important," he continued.
"But in view of the current escalation of violence, all sides must contribute to a de-escalation," Gabriel said.

The deputy chancellor said that economic relations between the two countries would also be on the agenda.
"Israel is a highly innovative, technology-savvy country. Our economic relations are good, but could be expanded still further," Gabriel said.