Past Conferences

Opening Remarks by Mr. EHUD OLMERT - Vice Prime Minister of Israel
Israel & Europe: A Fundamental Partnership and  Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy - Minister of State and Interior of France (Presented by Video)


 

 

- Elocution of Mr. Nicolas Sarkozy - Minister of State and Interior of France
Economic Relations between France & Israel:



video of Nicolas Sarkozy

 

"Mr. President, Mr. Cukierman, dear Edouard,

 

I was looking forward to participate at the conference «Go for Europe», organized by you on February 6th in Tel Aviv.
Unfortunately, I cannot join you on that day but I wanted to witness my interest through this recorded video message.

 

First of all, I wanted to say « Bravo » for the brilliant economic performances that Israel has achieved through a stringent policy set up by the Israeli government these past few years.
It has been a success that Israel deserves.
I am pleased to say that Israel has become a very important business partner for the European Union, import and export wise.
Europe is a strong, friendly and faithful partner. For me the development of the economical relationship between Europe and Israel, and especially between France and Israel is a strong priority.
I have worked very hard on that matter when I was the finance minister, more than 50 French companies made the choice to open offices in Israel, industrial companies such as: Veolia, Danone, Schneider, L’Oréal, Aventis, Alcatel, Dassault Systèmes, France Telecom, also banks and finance companies such as : BNP-Paribas, Dexia, Edmond de Rothschild.
Also, I know that France is perceived in Israel as a good place for making business in Europe by Israeli investors.

 

Our Jewish community in France is Europe’s largest and the third in the world in terms of size; it’s an important asset that we have to use. I know that the Israelis are very concerned right now due to the Palestinian elections and the health problems of prime minister Ariel Sharon whom I bid a fast recovery.
I know many Israelis hold their prime minister in their hearts after what he has done for them, an outstanding courage throughout the Israeli wars and a strong determination for peace.

 

So now, dear Edouard, ladies and gentlemen, participants of the conference « Go for Europe », I would like to wish to you all « good work » and to state again my disappointment for not being here with you today."

 

 

Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, Minister of Finance

 

   

 

 

PM Ariel Sharon:

 

"The initiators of this important conference - you, Roger Cukierman and your son, Edouard, the Chairman of Cukierman and Co - are providing a tangible expression of that same determination and dedication to act - and to succeed - in the fascinating path you have chosen. I especially appreciate the dynamic and decisive way in which you have organized this event and the results you have achieved."