JERUSALEM, July 8 (Xinhua) -- Italy is seeking to play mediator in peace negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, visiting Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini told Israeli President Shimon Peres as the two met in Jerusalem on Tuesday afternoon.

    "We stand before a rare window of opportunity and are obligated to make the most of it. There is no reason why Israel should not engage all of its neighbors in peace negotiations, including Lebanon," Frattini, who began his visit to Israel Tuesday, was quoted by local daily Yedioth Ahronoth as saying.

    Frattini said he plans to relay the message directly to Lebanese Prime Minister Fouad Seniora once Beirut completes the process of putting together its new government.

    Peres, for his part, responded by saying that Israel has always offered its hand in peace to those who want it.

    "I have always believed that there are no contradicting interests between Israel and Lebanon, no true conflict," said Peres.

    The president told the Italian minister that he views the launching of such talks "in a positive light," but added that there were of course some reservations on Israel's part.

    "Lebanon must be independent, democratic and free of foreign influence," the president said, referring to Syrian and Iranian involvement in Lebanese affairs by using Hezbollah as a proxy.

    Meanwhile, Frattini praised the renewed peace process between Israel and Syria under Turkish mediation, adding that Italy would be willing to aid the efforts.

    "I call on the Syrian leadership to advance the negotiations with Israel, for Israel is serious in its intentions," Frattini told Peres.

    Frattini has a series of meetings scheduled during his visit with most of Israel's political echelon, according to Yedioth Ahronoth.

    On Monday, diplomatic officials said that Israel and Italy are expected to announce the establishment of a "strategic dialogue" during Frattini's visit.