HEBRON, July 23, 2009 (WAFA)- U.S. Consul General Jake Walles visited Hebron, Thursday, to meet with local officials and entrepreneurs to discuss the situation in the Governorate.

The U.S. Consul General met with Hebron Mayor Khalid Osaily, Hebron Business Forum President Ghazi Herbawi, and the Forum’s Board of Directors to discuss private sector achievements, as well as the specific challenges the Hebron business community faces.  Speaking to press during his visit, Walles praised the efforts of Mayor Osaily, backed by the PA government to provide services to the people of Hebron and introduce reforms to make government more accountable to the people. Walles also noted the difficulties faced by the private sector in Hebron, but praised their resiliency and their success in creating jobs and opening new opportunities for residents. 

During a tour of the Al-Jebrini Dairy facility, the Consul General praised owners Dr. Ismail Al-Jebrini and Dr. Jihad Al-Jebrini for producing and distributing quality dairy products. Walles stated that the U.S. Government would continue its efforts in conjunction with the Palestinian Authority to promote opportunities for businesses to expand their markets in Palestine and abroad. 

Walles further emphasized the importance of creating a stable environment to attract investment.  “As President Obama has made clear, the U.S. will support efforts to build institutions that serve the needs of the Palestinian people.” The Consul General noted that the U.S. Agency for International Development is also actively supporting a number of public sector projects in the Hebron area, including in infrastructure, education, health, roads, and water and sewage systems.