Israel's deputy PM completes talks with Golding

Dan Meridor, Israel's deputy prime minister and minister of intelligence and atomic energy, was in Jamaica on a one-day visit to meet with Prime Minister Bruce Golding and a number of government ministers to discuss ways to strengthen ties between both countries.

Among the issues discussed were Israel's success in renewable energy technology and water irrigation, which have greatly benefited its agriculture.

"Jamaica and Israel have had a good relationship for many years. Israel has some experience in the areas of water irrigation and energy, which it is ready and willing to share with Jamaica. We did so in recent years and years past. It is usually a two-way street; we can learn from you and you can learn from us," Meridor said during a visit to The Gleaner's North Street, central Kingston, offices yesterday.

World a global unit

In his first visit to Jamaica and the Caribbean, Meridor, his wife Leora, and Israeli delegates were meeting with Gleaner Managing Director Christopher Barnes and senior editors during a courtesy call on the newspaper company.

"The world today has become one global unit. Things that happen in our area have an effect on things like oil prices that affect you and the price of water here," he said.

Stating that the discussions went well with a lot of room for going forward, Meridor said he came with an openness and readiness to help in whatever areas that would be of interest to Jamaica. He said it was important that both countries examine the projects that would be of mutual benefit, and possibly send persons with the necessary expertise to Jamaica for further consultation.

"I think we should cooperate at even higher levels. We do cooperate, but we should do more in the areas of energy, water, agriculture, and other things. I also came to explain our positions on world affairs, like the Iranian issue, the Israel-Arab dialogue, and the Arab Spring. I found the exchange with the prime minister quite helpful and positive, and I hope that the relationship will improve. We can do a lot together," Meridor noted.

The deputy prime minister is hoping to make a return visit to Jamaica soon, with more time to enjoy the natural beauty of the country.

"The minimal taste I had of Jamaica tells me I should come back soon and stay for a few days longer, not seeing politicians, but seeing the beauty of Jamaica," he noted.

Among the Israeli delegates who made the courtesy call on The Gleaner were non-resident ambassador to Jamaica, Moshe Sermoneta; director of Central America and Caribbean Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ehud Eitam; and honorary consul of Israel in Jamaica, Ainsley Henriques.

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