Tory and Labour London mayor candidates Zac Goldsmith and Sadiq Khan have both backed a festival promoting Tel Aviv which is set to take place in the UK capital for the first time next year.

Mr Goldsmith, the MP for Richmond Park and North Kingston, said: “This event is fantastic news for both great cities and reemphasises our very close social and economic links.

“This festival will provide yet another forum for our citizens, businesses and administrations to work together in partnership for our mutual benefit.”

He added: “It is absolutely vital that the Mayor of London recognises the significance of our bonds with Tel Aviv and that is why this initiative has my whole-hearted support.”

Mr Khan, the Labour MP for Tooting, said the festival would boost London’s status as “the best global promotional venue”.
Plans to host the cultural festival were announced during an visit to Israel last November by London mayor Boris Johnson.