In association with the US Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber hosted a delegation of 15 representatives of U.S. state and regional chambers of commerce, part of the US’ Federation of Chambers of Commerce.  In the 4.5 day visit the delegation was exposed to the business and economic environment of the Start-up nation through meeting business leaders and organizations, as well as to historical and cultural sites such as Jerusalem’s old city, Yad Vashem, and Nazareth. 

In addition, they were introduced to the political and government world here by meeting Jerusalem mayor, Nir Barkat, visiting the Knesset and attending an active session, along with Israeli cuisine in all its colors.  The Delegates also had the unique experience of visiting Rawabi, the newly established Palestinian city north of Ramallah, and the Barkan industrial zone, meeting business leaders on both sides of the fence and learning of cooperation opportunities among Israeli, American and Palestinian firms. The delegates came away hugely impressed by the level and depth of the economic activity in Israel and together with both Chambers have already started planning follow-on activities to strengthen relations between their business communities and Israel's.