Governor O’Malley Announces New Maryland-Israel Partnership

Jacob Miller — May 2, 2013 – 1:56 pm | Democrats | Economy | Foreign Policy | Israel Comments (0) Add a comment

Last week, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley traveled to Israel on an eight day trade mission. The trip resulted in four Israeli high-tech startups opening offices in Maryland, the formation of the Maryland-Israel advisory board, and meetings with both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Shimon Peres.

The four companies that will open offices in Maryland include Shekel Scales-which builds high precision scales for the retail and healthcare industry; Askimo-an online education firm; Roboteam-which develops robots that collect tactical intelligence and deal with hazardous materials; and Hybrid Security-a cyber-security firm. Governor O’Malley said:

“These companies are great additions to our high-tech entrepreneurial community and it is a testament to our highly-educated workforce and strategic location that they are choosing Maryland to grow. ...Israel and Maryland share a commitment to education and innovation, and to making this world a safer place. These companies exemplify those commitments and the strength of the bond between Maryland and Israel.”

Governor O’Malley also announced the formation of the first Maryland-Israel Advisory Board, which will help develop business opportunities that benefit Maryland and Israel:

“While Maryland and Israel have a long history of partnership, the Maryland/Israel Advisory Board will be a dedicated group looking to open new doors for Maryland and Israeli businesses and community organizations looking to collaborate. ...I look forward to working with Rabbi Lipman and the members of this board to strengthen our shared ties in industries like biotechnology, IT and aerospace and defense and encourage trade and cultural missions to both of our communities.”

Governor O’Malley also met with President Peres and Prime Minister Netanyahu. Governor O’Malley said this of the meeting:

“Meeting with President Peres and Prime Minister Netanyahu was a tremendous honor. ...Their tireless dedication to peace for Israel and the entire region is an inspiration not just for the citizens here, but the world over. We look forward to strengthening the deep and historic relationship between Maryland and Israel and growing as partners in peace and prosperity.”

NJDC Executive Director Aaron Keyak talked to Washington Jewish Week about the Governor’s trip:

”[G]overnors are big players on the international stage,” said Aaron Keyak, interim executive director of the National Jewish Democratic Council. “As the head of a state, it’s important for him to have an international profile.

“The U.S. partnership with Israel isn’t just strategic, military and diplomatic. It’s economic on a state-by-state basis,” he added.

Washington Jewish Week also noted:

In 2012, Israel was Maryland’s 43rd largest trading partner, according to the governor’s office. In addition some 20 Israeli companies maintain offices in Maryland. O’Malley used his visit to Israel to announce that three Israeli technology companies would be opening their doors in the state.

This was Governor O’Malley’s third trip to Israel. 

 

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