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Bilateral relations

A timeline of historic events between Israel, the European Union, and NATO. 

Israel-EU relations began in 1959 with the first agreement between Israel and European Economic Community (EEC) countries. In 1995, the EU-Israel Association Agreement formalized cooperation in trade, politics, and cultural exchange. The Israeli Mission to the European Union was established in 1970 to strengthen diplomatic ties and represent Israel within EU institutions.

Israel-NATO relations began in 1994 with Israel joining the NATO Mediterranean Dialogue. This partnership focuses on enhancing regional security, military cooperation, and joint exercises, strengthening Israel’s ties with NATO countries.

1959
Golda Meir and Walter Hallstein, the first president of the Commission of the EEC, 1964

Israel-EU relations officially began with the signing of the first agreement between Israel and the European Economic Community (EEC).

1970
EU  & Israel

Israel’s Mission to the European Union is fully established. 

1994
Israel & NATO

Israel becomes a NATO partner via the Mediterranean Dialogue in 1994.

1995
Handshake

Israel and the EU sign the first EU-Israel Association Agreement. 

2016
Leshno Yaar

Ambassador Leshno Yaar becomes first Israeli Ambassador to present his credentials to the NATO Secretary General.

2023
After October 7

EU Leadership highlights key solidarity with Israel amid the October 7 terrorist attacks, with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen visiting Israel to express solidarity following the Hamas attacks. 

2025
Israel & EU General

Reconvening of the Israel-EU Association Council.