Israeli President Shimon Peres on Monday accepted an invitation from Pope Francis to go to the Vatican for a joint prayer for peace with his Palestinian counterpart Mahmud Abbas.

"Your coming to the Holy Land is an important opportunity for joint prayer," he said.

"We will be happy to raise up prayer like this at our home, or at yours, in accordance with your generous invitation, according to your choice," Peres said, turning to look directly at Francis as he spoke.