Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Photo: Gil Yohanan
PM promotes Jerusalem development plan
Netanyahu reiterates $115M plan to boost capital's economy, Tourism Ministry to add $20M to encourage hotel construction
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
reaffirmed his statement at the United States Congress last week before his ministers on Sunday, saying that the government will earmark special funds for Jerusalem as part of the Marom Development Plan.
"The government and the nation are committed to Jerusalem, which is one of the foundations of the Israeli people's unity," he declared.
Budget
Attila Somfalvi
Government to vote on new funds for capital's development on Sunday. Western Wall to receive special funding as well
During the cabinet's meeting at the Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem, in honor of Jerusalem Day, Netanyahu said: "I've stressed this issue before Knesset members and before the US Congress. Even in the US they realized we're talking about Israel's inalienable assets. It's important that the world know we're committed to Jerusalem, we stand firm and extend a hand to our neighbors. I believe that today they have become more aware of it."
The prime minister mentioned the Marom Development Plan to grant specials funds for Jerusalem.
"Over 44 years ago the city was united and we returned to the lands of our ancestors," said Netanyahu. "Since then Jerusalem has flourished, both in and out of the city. Today we strengthen Jerusalem. The government will make decisions worth over NIS 400 million (some $115 million) regarding education funds, reinforcement of important heritage sites, bio-technology and more."
This financial plan includes a NIS 145.5 million (some $42 million) investment to boost Jerusalem's status as a tourist location. Another NIS 71.4 million (some $20.5 million) will be designated to improving the city's standing as a bio-technology research and development center.
Further steps will be taken to expand the city's economic development and be budgeted around NIS 70.5 million (some $20 million).
In addition to the Marom Plan, the Tourism Ministry is expected to designate another NIS 75 million ($21.5 million) to boost the construction of hotels in Jerusalem.
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