Israel congratulated the European Union on Friday over being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, and said it expected the EU to continue its peacemaking efforts in the Middle East.
A foreign ministry statement said Israel "extends its congratulations" to the EU, and called its success in establishing peace in Europe after two world wars "an inspiration to the whole family of nations."
"The EU crystallises the way of reason and compromise through which nations can overcome hostility and ancient conflicts, and establish good neighbourly relations, mutual trust and cooperation for the common good," it said.
The statement noted Israel's "particular interest in the European peacemaking achievement."
"During World War II, the Jewish People lost one third of its members on European soil, and European reconciliation, therefore, affects Israel directly," it said.
The foreign ministry also noted the EU's "special responsibility for achieving peace in its neighbourhood area, and for maintaining vigilance in the face of displays of racism and anti-Semitism within its borders."
"We expect the EU to continue its efforts for promoting peace in the Middle East, through a supportive approach and understanding of the special sensitivities of the area," the statement read.
The EU is part of the peacemaking Quartet that has been making efforts to renew direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.