Israel ready for govt, private sector partnerships in Nigeria- Envoy

The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, said on Wednesday that Israel is open to partnering with the Federal Government and the private sector in areas that benefit both countries.

He said this was part of his country’s efforts to eradicate poverty and insecurity in the world.

Freeman, who was represented by the Consul of Israel in Nigeria, Inbar Lipman Garden, spoke at the Nigeria-Israel Business Forum’s Annual General meeting in Abuja.

He said, “Having gone through the agenda for the day, I can attest to the fact that you have eloquent professionals and great speakers to address the issues of the day. Israel is proud to be partnering development of the Nigerian economic and business sector. We are ready to partner with the government and the private sectors in areas of mutual benefit to our countries.

“I implore you to take advantage of today’s presentations and join us in a quest to eradicate poverty and insecurity in the world. We look forward to receiving the dividends of this gathering, hoping it will improve the trade business between our countries.”

Speaking virtually, the Nigerian Ambassador in Tel-Aviv, Agatha Afokelu, urged Nigerians to take advantage of the partnership offered by the Israeli government.

Afokelu also said Nigerians should start thinking of what to export to Israel.

He said, “For me, again, it is a great opportunity this time. I urge Nigerians to use this advantage to think of products to export to Israel.

“Now that the door is open for us, I heard the speech of the representative of Ambassador Freeman, and she said that they are open to receive us, they are open for business. So I encourage all members to be ready. We are also ready to receive you, to make you feel at home, to make you happy.”

The president of the forum, PatGrace Owusi said the forum had helped to improve the economy of the two countries.

He said, “Over the years, by the grace of God, we have done so much. The forum has helped to improve the economic standards of the two countries. We are glad that Nigeria can fly to Israel today without heading because the Basra agreement was signed.

“We are glad that today, Nigerian people can go to Israel and do business because of the economic agreement that was signed. This was piloted by this organization.

“And today, we want to look into some vital issues. Israel needs Nigeria, and Nigeria needs Israel. Fish needs water and water needs fish. Without water, fish do not exist. And without fish, water does not exist. It exists with nothing.”