In a discussion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ 2004 budget in the Knesset Finance Committee, Biran said that Israel’s annual public relations budget was less than 40 million NIS. "That’s not even enough for a diaper marketing or cosmetics promotion campaign," said Biran. "Military achievements aren’t enough, unless accompanied by suitable diplomatic public relations. Building a security fence isn’t enough; you have to explain Israel’s fundamental values to the world."
Biran also protested the closing of twelve embassies around the world due to budget constraints – half during this past year. He also reported that the number of Foreign Ministry emissaries abroad has been cut from 426 in 2000 to only 300 in 2004. Biran said, "Had we not had an embassy in Columbia, the Israeli hostages affair there would have ended completely differently." He said that the ministry had asked Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to intervene to prevent the closure of embassies.
"While its budget is being cut to the bone, the tasks facing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are constantly multiplying. We have an urgent need to reinforce our embassies in Brussels and Washington, and increase our PR work regarding international terrorism, the danger of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and the threat of Iranian arms development," Biran warned.
Biran also protested the closing of twelve embassies around the world due to budget constraints – half during this past year. He also reported that the number of Foreign Ministry emissaries abroad has been cut from 426 in 2000 to only 300 in 2004. Biran said, "Had we not had an embassy in Columbia, the Israeli hostages affair there would have ended completely differently." He said that the ministry had asked Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to intervene to prevent the closure of embassies.
"While its budget is being cut to the bone, the tasks facing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are constantly multiplying. We have an urgent need to reinforce our embassies in Brussels and Washington, and increase our PR work regarding international terrorism, the danger of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and the threat of Iranian arms development," Biran warned.