by Info
A monumental Trade Delegation, Arizona’s largest ever to Israel wrapped up earlier this week. Co-led by chairman of the House State and International Affairs Committee – Rep. Tony Rivero and the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance, a group of 55 delegates including 18 state legislators, elected officials from the city of Scottsdale including Mayor Jim Lane and Councilwoman Klapp and group representation from the Arizona Commerce Authority celebrated the bustling increase of trade between Arizona and Israel.
With a robust week of meetings, briefings and learning about the opportunities Israel and Arizona continues to share, it was the opening of the Arizona – Israel Trade and Investment Office that was a highlight for the delegation. Since the founding of the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance, the influx of Israeli companies to Arizona has close to doubled, from eleven companies to twenty and the growth of two-way trade currently at nearly $500 million. It was the vision of Rep. Tony Rivero who saw this opportunity to open a state trade office in Israel. With support and leadership of Governor Doug Ducey – a long-time supporter and advocate for stronger ties with Israel, state legislators, Sandra Watson – CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce – the trade office was official.
“It’s an honor to celebrate the historic opening of the Arizona Trade Office in Israel with those who worked together with me to make this a reality,” said Representative Rivero. “By working together with Israel, we will strengthen trade and spur economic development. First, I would like to thank the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance for collaborating with the House State and International Affairs Committee and for making this trade visit a success. I’m also glad to be joined by my fellow members of the Arizona Legislature, Israeli officials, the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, and the Arizona Commerce Authority to celebrate this tremendous achievement.”
“The opening of Arizona’s trade office in Tel Aviv, Israel promises to further advance the strong relationship between our states,” said Governor Ducey. “We look forward to increased collaboration in our shared areas of strength — technology and innovation, research and development, entrepreneurship and more.”
“The Arizona Trade Office in Israel is a monumental milestone in furthering the growing opportunities and successes that Arizona continues to see. I thank Governor Ducey, Representative Rivero, and the Arizona Commerce Authority for their leadership in these efforts. The trade delegation to Israel, Arizona’s largest to date, is testament to the commitment and opportunities that lie ahead,” said Leib Bolel, CEO of the Arizona Israel Technology Alliance.
David Ya’ari, an entrepreneur and business leader with an extensive background in technology and finance will lead the Tel Aviv office overseen by the Arizona Commerce Authority.