Greek Foreign Minister in Israel amid Debt Crisis

JERUSALEM, Israel -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias Monday at his Jerusalem residence, saying the visit demonstrates the two countries "real commitment" to one another.

"You come here at a critical time for Greece, and I appreciate the fact that you kept this visit despite some rather dramatic events in your country," Netanyahu said before they sat down together.

Both democracies, he said, are "seeking peace, stability, and security in the eastern Mediterranean.

Netanyahu assured Kotzias that Israel is committed to help Greece in any way it can, "not only because of friendship, but also because I think we live in an interwoven world where the stability of one country affects the stability of many countries."

On Kotzias' first visit to Jerusalem, Netanyahu said he was proud to have been the prime minister that worked to further the relationship between the two countries.

"I visited Greece; you are visiting Israel now and I welcome you in the spirit of friendship, ancient and modern. And we hope and pray for your success," Netanyahu concluded.