Today, Israel and the UAE said they had started talks on a free trade agreement, according to a joint statement carried on state news agency WAM. 

The UAE and Israel have previously signed agreements for tourism, investment, and cooperation in fields from energy to technology.

Yair Lapid, the first Israeli cabinet minister to visit the Gulf state since the countries forged ties last year, said he expected more deals to be inked between Israel and the UAE, demonstrating what happens when countries choose cooperation over conflict.