Governor Perdue Leads Technology and Trade Mission to Israel

ATLANTA - Governor Sonny Perdue will lead a technology and trade mission to Israel , November 4 - 11, 2005.  The mission, which will include officials from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and business leaders from targeted Georgia industries, will take the Governor to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem , Haifa , Yokneam-Megiddo, Ra'anana and Nazareth .  The Governor and GDEcD officials will meet with Israeli governmental leaders and potential business investors in the technology and bioscience industries.  The Governor is also expected to participate in the Prime Minister's Economic Conference to be held that week.

            “ Israel is a world leader in business and technology, and already one of Georgia 's major trading partners,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.  “We expect this mission will generate new economic activity in Georgia and enhance our state's position as one of Israel 's primary business centers in North America .” Georgia is a regional or United States headquarters to more than 40 Israeli companies.

            The business aspects of the Governor's itinerary are being coordinated by the American-Israel Chamber of Commerce, Southeast Region. Tentative plans include meetings at universities, technology incubators, venture capital firms, and companies to build relationships with Israel 's life sciences, agriculture research, nanotechnology, software, telecommunications and medical industries, and to promote the interests of Georgia companies. 

            "We're pleased to partner with the Georgia Department of Economic Development in organizing this important business mission,” said Andre Schnabl, chairman of the board of the American-Israel Chamber of Commerce.  “Under the leadership of Governor Perdue, we anticipate strengthening the business ties between America , Israel and Georgia businesses on this historic trip."

            Governor Perdue authorized the purchase of $5 million of Israeli bonds in January 2005.  The authorization reflected the competitive interest rate offered for the bonds, the number of Georgia companies doing business with Israel , and the Governor's confidence in the stability of Israel 's government.  The trade mission in November may include a visit to infrastructure improvements financed through the sale of Israeli bonds in Georgia .  The Governor is also expected to join with more than 300 members of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta who will be visiting Israel on their Centennial Mission that week.

            In April 2005, Governor Perdue was given the Declaration of Independence Award for Georgia 's dedicated support of Israel 's continued effort to build and sustain a strong economy and to achieve a secure and lasting peace.