Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich sat down on Wednesday with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. This meeting marked the first official engagement between a member of the Israeli government and the US Treasury since Joe Biden assumed the presidency.
At the outset of their discussion, Smotrich conveyed appreciation to US President Donald Trump and his administration for “their unequivocal support for the State of Israel in the existential war that it is fighting.”
A joint release emphasized that both officials “reaffirmed the strong and enduring commitment of both nations to a strategic economic partnership.” Their talks underscored the necessity of expanding economic ties, encouraging innovation, and bolstering financial and trade relationships.
The statement further declared: “This is a critical time to shape a new strategic economic future for both countries, reinforcing American global leadership and Israel’s role as a key economic partner. To advance shared economic interests, both sides agreed to strengthen dialogue mechanisms to enhance collaboration in key areas, including economic policy, technology, and financial regulation. As longstanding partners, the United States and Israel recognize the vital role of their economic relationship in driving growth and prosperity for both nations.”
It also noted: “Today’s meeting marks a significant step in further strengthening US-Israel economic ties. Now, more than ever, a coordinated and forward-looking approach is essential to ensure that this partnership remains a source of economic resilience, innovation, and mutual benefit.”
The statement concluded by affirming: “Both parties look forward to continued collaboration and deeper coordination across economic, technological, and financial policy areas to further reinforce bilateral economic relations.”
Prior to the meeting, Minister Smotrich remarked: “After four years under the Biden administration during which no ministerial-level meeting was held between the US Treasury and the Israeli government – we are entering the US Treasury for a very important meeting. In this meeting, we will lay the base for a strong economic-strategic partnership between the nations. I am convinced that the strengthening of the partnership between us can lead to mutual growth, development, and prosperity for the good of both nations.”
{Matzav.com}