A strategic cooperation agreement in the field of advanced technologies that focuses on the areas of climate, preparedness for epidemics, artificial intelligence and quantum computing will be signed between Israel and the US during the visit this week by US President Joe Biden.
The National Security Council will coordinate the effort in which the Science and Technology, Health and Environmental Protection ministries will lead professional work teams in selected fields.
Prime Minister Yair Lapid and Biden made a joint statement regarding the launch of the agreement.
What is included in the agreement?
The ministries will provide the framework for it. Professional teams are expected to start operating in the coming months to promote technological-strategic dialogue that will significantly deepen the strategic partnership in cutting-edge technologies.
The two governments said the goal of the cooperation is to give expression to the special relationship between the US and Israel, anchor the partnership between the countries and set Israel’s position among America’s leading allies in the field of technology. Their joint commitment to tackling will shape the next decade, they said.
“I am pleased that the president’s visit will include a statement on his behalf about strengthened technological cooperation between the two governments, after work we have promoted in my ministry and the Environmental Protection Ministry in recent months,” Science and Technology Minister Orit Farkash-Hacohen said. “Artificial intelligence, quantum computing, climate, dealing with epidemics and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions are among the areas in which we will strengthen the joint work. It is good for the Israeli economy, science and hi-tech. Joint working groups from Israel and America will start work immediately.”
Environmental Protection Minister Tamar Zandberg said: “Israel and the US share many common values. The two governments see the climate crisis as one of the greatest threats to man, and the fight against it and preparing for it are in our common interest. As part of strengthening technological cooperation with the US, Israel’s closest friend, I am pleased to lead a joint working group that will develop solutions to this global climate-crisis challenge.”
Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz said: “I welcome the agreement, which will contribute to the realization of the advantage inherent in technological advances and medical innovation for the safety and health of the citizens of both countries. This is significant news that will leverage the scientific power of Israel, the scientific community, local societies and the entire Israeli economy.
“This is a basis for maintaining Israel’s national resilience. Scientific collaborations by institutions in the two countries will greatly contribute to the advancement of science in Israel and to exposure to unique science infrastructures located in the US.”