JERUSALEM, October 2, 2009 (WAFA)- U.S. Consul General in Jerusalem Daniel Rubinstein inaugurated Friday the “Palestinian-U.S. Exchange Alumni Association” in Ramallah.  Approximately 65 alumni of U.S. Government-supported exchange programs were in attendance in Ramallah, with another 30 joining by digital videoconference from Gaza.

In a press release, the U.S Consulate General said the goal of the association, which is the first of its kind to include all alumni of U.S. exchange programs in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, is to coordinate among the thousands of Palestinians who have had the opportunity to travel to the United States on cultural, professional, and academic exchange programs.

 The association will strengthen this alumni network in order to conduct projects and activities in support of Palestinian communities and institutions.

Consul General Rubinstein congratulated the assembled alumni on the successful establishment of the new association, noting that, “this association will provide an excellent forum for you to join together to conceive and implement projects to help develop the great potential of the Palestinian people and strengthen the foundations of the future state of Palestine.”

 Every year, the U.S. Government offers a wide range of short and long-term exchange programs for Palestinians living in West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem.  Over 3,000 Palestinians have traveled on U.S. Government supported programs, representing many different sectors of society, including business, politics, international organizations, culture, and academia.