German Chancellor Angela Merkelon Sunday began a three-day visit to Israel in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties and help resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

"I am grateful we can open a new chapter in relations between our two countries," Merkel was quoted by local media as saying at a welcoming ceremony at Tel Aviv, where she was greeted by Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert greets German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday at Ben Gurion International airport. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)