Israeli and Lebanese representatives have agreed to convene again later this month to continue discussing potential areas of economic cooperation, following what officials described as their first direct talks in decades, according to Israel’s Channel 12.

The report cited Israeli officials as saying that Wednesday's meeting, which lasted a little over an hour, was “good” and conducted in a constructive atmosphere. They said both sides are expected to return to the next session with concrete proposals aimed at advancing cooperation in sectors including agriculture, technology, transportation and infrastructure.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the discussions were held “in a positive spirit,” but underscored that Israel considers the disarmament of Hezbollah a non-negotiable condition, independent of any economic progress that may emerge from the talks.

One Israeli official, speaking to Channel 12, framed Israel’s participation in economic initiatives inside Lebanon as a signal that Hezbollah’s influence in the country is over.

“The fact that Israel is entering and taking part in economic elements inside Lebanon is a clear statement that Hezbollah has finished its role in Lebanon,” the official said. “We are prepared to move forward together with the Lebanese government, but it must deal with Hezbollah.”