Clinton in Israel to compare notes
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JERUSALEM, July 16 (UPI) -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton met Monday with Israeli officials to compare notes about regional developments, an official said.
Clinton traveled to Israel following weekend meetings with Egyptian leaders, including newly elected President Mohamed Morsi. Morsi became the first democratically elected president in Egyptian history more than a year after the country was swept up in the so-called Arab Spring.
Following talks with Israeli President Shimon Peres, Clinton said her visit provided her with an opportunity to discuss regional transformations.
"It is a chance to advance our shared goal of security, stability, peace, and democracy, along with prosperity for the millions of people in this region who have yet to see a better future," she said in a statement.
A senior State Department official, speaking to reporters on condition of anonymity, said Clinton would compare "strategic notes" with Israeli officials during her meetings.
Israel is a key U.S. ally in the region. The official said a "major issue" of bilateral talks would be the concern over Iran's nuclear program, which Tehran maintains is for peaceful purposes.