Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke this morning, with Australian Prime Minister John Howard, who telephoned in order to congratulate him on his elections victory and wish him success in forming a government.  The Australian Prime Minister noted that his country supports Israel and added that bilateral relations are based on deep friendship.  He said that Australia greatly appreciated the goals that Acting Prime Minister Olmert has set and added that they win broad support among Israel's friends in Australia.

Acting Prime Minister Olmert thanked Australian Prime Minister Howard for his congratulations and for Australia's consistent support of Israel.  He said that he appreciates the Australian Prime Minister's support and friendship and invited him to visit Israel.  Australian Prime Minister Howard said that he hopes to visit Israel in the second half of the year.