“PIBF” Organizes an Extensive Discussion Highlighting Future of Economic Scenario in the Region

Dec. 13, 2007 - PRLog -- Palestine International Business Forum “PIBF” organized, yesterday a full day program to present and discuss the results of its recent study prepared by the a group of European, Israeli and Palestinian economic experts focusing on the Future Scenarios of the Economic Relations between Palestine and Israel.

The aforementioned event took place at the Ambassador Hotel in Jerusalem, included several speakers from the forum, and other official guests of honor.  The opening speech by Mr. Zahi Khouri, PIBF Chairman, highlighted the importance of boosting the Palestinian economy. "We believe in every individual and we know that any social development is highly correlated to economical development and thus it is our role as private sector visionaries to give a chance for everyone not only to survive but to live a decent and dignified life".


And on his side, the Palestinian Minister of Planning and Guest of Honor, Dr. Sameer Abdullah, valued the great role of the Forum in enhancing better standard of living through economic advancement based on studies taking into account the current situation. "There is no doubt that the Palestinian economy is facing enormous challenges, but only through planning and a clear vision we can over come those obstacles" he also added "we are trying to rebuild the trust in the Palestinian economy and implement a new economical productive environment, in order to reach our ultimate goal of liberty and independency, and meanwhile provide the private sector with the suitable environment to take pioneering role in developing the national economy" Dr, Abdullah Minister of Planning


Meanwhile, Mr. Amiram Shore, the Vice Chairman of the forum, highlighted the importance of developing a sustainable Palestinian economy in the region due to the positive effects it will have on the Israeli Economy. He also emphasized the need to improve the economic cooperation between Palestine and Israel.  

“We are pushing for a sustainable economic situation in the region”, Amiram Shore, Vice Chairman of PIBF.  

Mr. Eric Belfrag, Vice Chairman of PIBF- Sweden, also highlighted the importance of this study in setting the future agenda, which can be based on the concepts of "Separating the two economies  as an opportunity for better cooperation".

On the other hand the comprehensive research which was conducted over the past six months observing the possible scenarios of trade agreements between Israel and a future Palestinian state; brought forth different recommendations such as the adoption of a “Free Trade Agreement Plus” as the basis of the future relationship in addition to the concept of “deep cooperation” where cooperation will make a key difference for businesses.