WASHINGTON, February 15, 2017 – World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim will meet with Palestinian and Israeli representatives on February 15 – 16 to discuss how the World Bank Group is working with both parties to share development expertise and help end extreme poverty.
During his visit, Kim will meet with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, Finance Minister Shukri Bishara, as well as beneficiaries of World Bank-supported education projects and young entrepreneurs. Topics of discussion will include economic and social development, growth and better service delivery in support of the Palestinian people.
Kim will also meet with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon, Economic Minister Eli Cohen, and business innovators. Topics of discussion will focus on increased collaboration, including how to draw on Israeli innovation in sectors such as water, agriculture, and information and communications technology to serve developing country clients.
Background:
The World Bank Group works with the Palestinian Authority in its efforts to lay the foundation for peace, stability, and better service delivery. The Bank works with the Palestinian Authority on issues related to water and sanitation, municipal, education and social protection.
Israel is a shareholder of the World Bank Group, and a regular donor to the International Development Association, the Bank’s fund for the world’s poorest countries. It is also a partner with the Bank Group in improving development expertise, particularly in the areas of water, information and communications technology, and agriculture.
