Governor Andrew M. Cuomo traveled to Israel this weekend to strengthen economic ties and demonstrate New York’s unwavering friendship and support in the wake of recent attacks in the Jewish community. His PR dept. sent out a copy of his itinerary, which is impressive. Check it out:
Governor Cuomo toured Yad Vashem with Dr. Robert Rozett, Director of the Libraries. He participated in a memorial ceremony at Yad Vashem’s Hall of Remembrance with President Reuven Rivlin. Then the governor and the president spoke with the press.
Governor Cuomo hosted a New York State-Israel Economic Development working lunch with Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, key Israeli business leaders and Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Howard Zemsky. Following the lunch, the Governor announced the launch of the New York-Israel Commission, and the partnership between New York Genome Center and Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. The Governor also proclaimed Shimon Peres Day in New York State.
Governor Cuomo attended a security briefing at Jerusalem’s Old City Police Headquarters with Minister of Public Security and Minister of Strategic Affairs Gilad Erdan, Director of the New York State Office of Counter Terrorism Major Michael J. Cerretto and Special Counsel for Public Safety Letizia Tagliafierro. Following the briefing, the Governor and Minister held a media availability.
Governor Cuomo toured the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall with Dr. Chaim Cohen.
The Governor concluded his visit with a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Governor Cuomo wrote on his Facebook page after his visit to Yad Vashem: “Hineni, I am here. I have been here before. I will be here again. Our relationship is enduring.
“The relationship between the Jewish community and the people of the state of New York is built on mutual support and respect. It is built on love, and that will not change.
“A powerful morning at Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust museum and memorial in Jerusalem.”
Following his visit to the Kotel, the governor wrote: “We must live by the rule that an abuse to one, or an affront to one, is an affront to all. Large fires start as small fires and we must have zero tolerance for any abuse or discrimination of any fellow human being.
“After a moving visit to some of the most precious sites in Israel, I reaffirm New York’s strong bond to the Israeli people and to dignity and safety.”
That’s one packed weekend!