First Hand Encounter with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe

Last night I attended the formal reception of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem.

Here are a few first- hand impressions of this historical meeting.

The messaging from both the Prime Minister Netanyahu and Prime Minister Abe were focused on expanding economic ties between to two countries. This is reflected in the fact that the Japanese entourage included not only Government officials but a wide array of senior businesspeople set to engage in talks with Israeli companies.

Prime Minister Netanyahu also pointed out that in light of sweeping Anti Semitism and Anti Israel sentiment pervading in Europe it is essential to broaden economic ties with Asia, a market that has remained relatively apolitical with regards to Israel and the Middle East.

On a personal level I observed the chemistry between the two leaders to be warm and cordial with a genuine sense of good will between the two.

One of the standout speaker was Harel Locker Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office. He pointed out that in an age when technological advancements engage with every element of our lives, the future belongs to those who can adapt and implement that technology. Based on this idea, the collaboration between Japanese technological know how and Israeli innovation is a perfect match.

Vered Farber Japan

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