The President of the State of Israel Shimon Peres begins Thursday morning a two-day official visit in Cyprus. During his visit, the first ever by an Israeli President, Peres will hold a series of contacts with the political leadership of the Republic of Cyprus.

Peres arrived in Cyprus Wednesday evening. At Larnaka International Airport, Peres was welcomed by Foreign Minister Erato Kozakou Markoullis and Israeli Ambassador in Nicosia.

Thursday morning, will be received in the Presidential Palace by President of the Republic Demetris Christofias with an official welcoming ceremony.

The two sides are expected to hold official talks and sign bilateral agreements, while subsequently President Christofias and President Peres will make statements to the Press.

The Israeli President will also meet with Cyprus Archbishop Chrysostomos II, as well as with the President of the House of Representatives Yiannakis Omirou.

Later in the afternoon, Peres will attend an official dinner, given in his honour by President Christofias and his spouse, Elsi.

On Friday, President Peres will meet with the President of the Democratic Rally Party Nicos Anastasiades, before departing the island.