JERUSALEM, February 21, 2011 (WAFA) – Managing Director of World Bank Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Vice President Shamshad Akhtar said that the Bank is committed to economic and social development in the West Bank and Gaza. 

The delegation reviewed the projects funded by the World Bank and met Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, Governor of the Palestine Monetary Authority Jihad Al Wazir and other key figures. 

Indrawati said, at the end of her visit which lasted two days: 'I’ve seen Palestinians' insistence to develop their society and economy under very challenging circumstances.'

The delegation also reviewed the progress of a sewage water treatment project in northern Gaza which benefits 300,000 residents in the region.    

Akhtar praised the PLO’s efforts and role in establishing a Palestinian state in the future. She expressed her hope in overcoming the obstacles facing the private sector in order to achieve development and progress.

A fact investigation committee preceded this visit and met for three days. The committee was led by World Bank executive directors as the body responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Bank.

M.H./F.J.