Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa at the Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem on Monday, highlighting the growing alliance between the two nations.

Netanyahu praised Ecuador’s decision to open an Innovation Center in Jerusalem, calling it a “strong symbol of friendship,” and emphasized expanded cooperation in agriculture, water, defense and security.

“Ecuador and Israel share a great friendship,” said Netanyahu. “We want to work closely with our friends for the values we share as truly democratic countries that seek prosperity, peace and security.”