International Cooperation in CIS and Eastern Europe - Opening Address

Mr. Haim Divon, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Head of MASHAV - the Center for International Cooperation

Good morning. Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassadors, Member of Knesset Yuri Stern. Today we are being asked to listen and to learn, so that we may continue to adapt ourselves to the highly significant development trends in the region. We are convinced that the fascinating mix of individuals present in this room, including public figures, diplomats and members of the business, academic and media community, will contribute toward an enriching learning experience.

I would like to give special thanks to the members of the various branches, the hard-working teams that carry out the professional aspects of MASHAV activities, as well as to the experts in the field. The efforts you expend in Israel and abroad have been the key to the significant and successful growth in our scope of activity. This is the direct product of your having been able to find the way to work with your counterparts in the various countries, planning and implementing joint development programs.