Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon spoke on Sunday evening to a delegation of Jewish National Fund (JNF) presidents from the United States. The delegation, which numbers about 50 people, arrived in Israel to closely look at the progress of development projects which are funded by the JNF, with an emphasis on projects in the Negev and the Arava.
Deputy Minister Ayalon, who was the keynote speaker of the evening, briefed the participants on the policy issues that concern the State of Israel today. He said that "the people of Israel thank you for your important contribution to the construction and strengthening of the State of Israel and Israeli society. Now that Israel is strong, prosperous and developed, we can work together to assist developing countries in areas such as forestry, water and energy. Together we will fulfill the commandment of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world)."