A historic meeting between New Jersey legislators and Israeli members of the Knesset was recently held virtually. The meeting’s goal was to exchange best practices, experiences and ideas for economic recovery from COVID-19 as well as establish a working relationship between the legislatures.

Among the members of Knesset who participated were Tehila Friedman (Blue and White), Michal Shir Segman (Likud) and Michal Cotler-Wunsh (Blue and White). Among the New Jersey legislators were Senator Loretta Weinberg, majority leader (D-37th legislative district); Senator Bob Singer (R-30th legislative district); Assemblyman Gary Schaer (D-36th legislative district); Assemblywoman Nancy Pinkin (D-18th legislative district) and Assemblyman Roy Freiman (D-16th legislative district).

During the meeting, the participants discussed ideas around legislative initiatives for economic recovery from COVID-19 including supporting businesses, working parents and bilateral cooperation.

Israel Nitzan, acting consul general of Israel in New York, said: “The state of Israel and the state of New Jersey enjoy many similarities, in its geographic size, size of the population. COVID-19 is a challenge for all of us, especially the health and well-being of our communities. However, it is also an opportunity to join forces and to work together to find solutions.”

Andrew Gross, executive director, New Jersey-Israel Commission, stated: “I am proud to have facilitated today’s important meeting, which brought New Jersey and Israel ever closer. We are thinking together about how to improve the lives of our citizens in this difficult time by establishing a working relationship between our legislators. I look forward to seeing more of this innovative cooperation.”

The New Jersey-Israel Commission was established in 1989 to implement the goals of the New Jersey-Israel Sister State Agreement—to promote the development of trade, culture and educational exchanges; encourage the development of capital investment and joint business ventures; and foster a spirit of cooperation between the citizens of the state of Israel and the state of New Jersey. The commission is under the purview of the New Jersey Department of State.

By Jewish Link Staff