On Wednesday, October 26, 2011 Governor Deval Patrick met with Consul General of Israel to New England Shai Bazak, members of the cabinet, and over 60 Israeli CEOs and executives in the Boston area this week to discuss further economic collaboration and growth between Israel and Massachusetts.

This event came on the heels of the Massachusetts Innovation Economy Partnership Mission to Israel, attended by Governor Patrick, prominent Massachusetts business leaders and government and academic officials. The mission explored opportunities for mutual economic and job growth, particularly in the innovation sectors of technology, life sciences and clean energy.

During the Boston panel, the Governor discussed the ways in which Israel and Massachusetts can work together to grow their economies and the work he has done to help foster this bond. Israeli executives were given the opportunity to ask Governor Patrick questions and voice their comments about doing business in Massachusetts.

As of October 2010, Israeli companies directly account for approximately 6,000 jobs and $2.4 billion in the economy of the Commonwealth. Indirectly, they account for 16,000 jobs and $5.4 billion.

Photos from the event are available at the Consulate's photo albums.