ABSTRACT
Israel was quick to identify the growing and developing challenge posed by the economic integration in Western Europe. In talks with representatives of the Council of Europe, Israeli diplomats encountered little enthusiasm. In parallel to pursuing the involvement with the Council of Europe, the Israelis examined the option of joining the Organization for European Economic Cooperation (OEEC). In June 1958, Israel began following the new path agreed upon with the OEEC officials. In November 1957, the sub-committee submitted a report on the ramifications of joining the OEEC; subsequently its recommendations were discussed in the inter-ministerial committee. While Israeli diplomats were engaged in talks with OEEC states concerning a multilateral agreement, the Israelis needed to tackle a problem with far more serious long-term ramifications. Israel's presence at the Council enabled the Israelis to maintain contact with a range of key figures in European bodies.
