US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman visited the city of Nazareth yesterday. The Ambassador toured several locations which focus on creating business and economic opportunities for the Arab community in Israel, such as the MAAOF-Nazareth Business Incubator Center and the Nazareth Industrial Park. Ambassador Friedman met with a group of Arab entrepreneurs, community representatives, and a group of Arab youths who have participated in exchange visits to the United States to discuss business, education, equal employment opportunities, and ways to improve Jewish-Arab relations in Israel.

Ambassador Friedman said: “This was a great visit to the Arab community in Israel, and I was both inspired and greatly encouraged by the efforts that are made in the areas of high-tech and employment opportunities here in Nazareth, including the recent decision by the government to build two new high-tech parks in Arab cities. The American Embassy is honored to be a partner in advancing these important issues. We believe that improving the economic and educational opportunities for the Arab minority in Israel helps advance their integration into the larger society, strengthens Jewish-Arab relations, and benefits Israel’s economic future.”