Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hosts Dozens of Mayors from Around the World at the 35th International Mayors Conference Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted dozens of mayors and municipal leaders from Europe, the Balkans, Africa, Asia and the Americas for dinner yesterday (November 8), marking the opening of the 35th International Mayors Conference. The conference is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the American Jewish Congress. Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eden Bar Tal: “Israel faces attacks on many fronts, but we have many true friends around the world. The gap between how Israel is sometimes portrayed and the reality on the ground is enormous. Those who visit Israel discover an extraordinary country; innovative, strong and vibrant. Many leave with a completely different picture from the one they arrived with. There is no substitute for experiencing Israel and meeting its people firsthand.” President of the American Jewish Congress, Daniel Rosen: “Over the coming days, mayors from around the world will experience innovation born out of necessity. This visit is an opportunity to build trust and personal relationships that will endure long after it ends. Our goal is for the mayors to return home with a deeper connection to Israel and an interest in joint initiatives, from adopting technologies that improve residents’ lives to developing economic and educational partnerships.” The conference aims to deepen Israel’s ties with local leaders worldwide and promote cooperation between local authorities and Israeli companies and entrepreneurs. Taking place from November 8 to 12 under the theme “Tech & AI: Empowering the Cities of Tomorrow,” it will introduce participants to Israeli solutions in smart mobility, cybersecurity, desalination and artificial intelligence. The delegation will also tour communities near the Gaza border and the Nova music festival memorial site, visit Yad Vashem and the “Balcony of the State” observation point, and meet with the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog. 📷: GPO/Ronen Horesh