By Forum Staff
Mayor Eric Adams and Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat on Monday signed a Declaration of Intent establishing the New York City–Israel Economic Council—a joint initiative that will strengthen economic ties and promote innovation between the two governments, Adams said.
Starting Monday, the council will facilitate business partnerships between Big Apple and Israeli companies; support Israeli businesses looking to establish a presence in the five boroughs; promote collaboration in key technological sectors, including environmental innovation, life sciences, and artificial intelligence; and coordinate participation in major business and technology conferences.
“Today, our administration is proud to launch the New York City–Israel Economic Council to deepen economic ties between our governments and serve as a gateway to the U.S. market for Israeli businesses — forging partnerships with New York City companies; advancing innovation in areas like environmental tech, life sciences, and AI; and helping Israeli startups establish a home in the five boroughs,” Adams said. “Today’s announcement of a Declaration of Intent reflects a proud tradition of New York City mayors collaborating with Israel, and will drive innovation, create jobs, and strengthen the unbreakable bond between our two governments.”
The Mayor’s Office for International Affairs is spearheading the initiative, partnering with the council made up of representatives from the New York City Mayor’s Office and Israel’s Economic Mission to the United States. The Declaration of Intent is nonbinding, but Adams said it underscores a strong mutual commitment and a long history of collaboration between the two governments.
The council will meet regularly and follow jointly developed guidelines, and will focus on partnerships in economic development, emergency management, education, and technology. New York City is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, and Monday’s agreement reinforces the longstanding bond between these two communities.
“It is a tremendous honor to establish this joint council with one of the world’s greatest cities: New York City. A global hub of innovation, creativity, and economic leadership, New York represents a powerful partner for Israel’s thriving business ecosystem,” Barkat said. “The creation of this council reflects a strong vote of confidence in the vitality of Israeli innovation and in New York’s position as a gateway to global markets. This agreement will have a very positive impact on the international exports from Israel’s market, establish a stronger presence of Israel’s renowned innovation in New York City, and open opportunities in sectors such as fintech, health tech and life sciences, high tech and software, defense and public safety, environmental innovation, and agro-food tech. This initiative opens new opportunities for Israeli companies to engage with the dynamic New York market, while contributing meaningful value to the city’s diverse economy. We extend our deep gratitude to Mayor Eric Adams for his enduring friendship and partnership with Israel, his commitment to strengthening economic ties, and his unwavering support for Israel on the international stage.”
Earlier this month, Hizzoner established the Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism to address an unprecedented rise in anti-Jewish hate in the city.
