Catholic News Agency

Holy See and Israel close to bilateral agreement, says Israeli ambassador

ROME, Dec 10, 2007 (CNA) — The Holy See and Israel are “very close to a historic conclusion” to the Fundamental Accord signed in 1993 and after many starts and stops, nearing the end of negotiations, according to statements by Israel’s Ambassador to the Holy See, Oded Ben Hur, during a debate in Rome.

Ambassador Ben Hur also said that “approximately 85% of the text was approved by delegates from both parties.” The agreement deals with economic issues, as well as with the legal and financial status of Church properties in the Holy Land and the Church’s activities in the region.

Obed Ben Hur also revealed that the negotiating committee will meet in Israel on December 13.