and by the close economic relations between the two countries, who are each other’s main trading partner. Germany’s cooperation with other Western countries has also been continuously intensified. Biannual summit meetings are held with the United Kingdom, and a dense network of agreements, consultations and mutual visits makes for a similarly close relationship with Germany’s other Western partners. Relations between Germany and Israel, too, are intensive and good at all levels and in most spheres. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1965 they have in many respects developed into a genuine friendship. In keeping with its balanced Mideast policy, the Federal Government is concurrently further developing its friendly relations with Arab countries and is making every effort to support the Mideast peace process.