U.S. Partnership with Qalqiliya Business and Agriculture Sectors Highlighted During U.S. Consul General’s Visit

April 16, 2012 - Jerusalem

American Consul General Daniel Rubinstein visited Qalqiliya today and met with Qalqiliya Governor Rabih al-Khandaqji, Mayor Othman Daoud, and key business and community leaders.  He commended their efforts, as well as those of President Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad, to improve prospects for economic development in the region, especially for farmers.

During a visit to the Al-Hanna Textile Company, which received a grant from the United States to purchase new sewing machines and create 65 new jobs, Consul General Rubinstein congratulated its founder, Fatima al-Jada, for her successful partnership with USAID.  Through this partnership, she and her colleagues have created opportunities for women and members of the disabled community, who have traditionally experienced difficulties in entering the job market. 

Consul General Rubinstein also visited local farms and agribusinesses, noting the importance of the agricultural sector to the greater Palestinian economy and emphasizing continued U.S. Government support for Palestinian agriculture.

For more information please contact the U.S. Consulate General’s Press Office at 02-622-6908 or 02-622-6909 or Hassna Dajani at 054-6620257.