New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat announced Monday the creation of the New York City-Israel Economic Council, a new initiative to boost economic and technological ties between the two regions.
Signed during the Jerusalem Post Conference, the agreement aims to support Israeli businesses expanding to New York, foster joint ventures, and encourage collaboration in sectors like environmental science and artificial intelligence.
“We’re top partners now,” said Adams. “Israel is a global tech leader, and this council will help bring future jobs to New Yorkers.” Barkat added the move opens “new opportunities” for Israeli companies to engage with New York’s vibrant economy.
Led by the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs and Israel’s Economic Mission to the U.S., the council will help Israeli firms work with New York agencies and integrate into the local economy. Over 400 Israeli startups already operate in New York, and more than 30 Israel-founded unicorns (companies valued at over $1 billion) are based in the state, creating over 14,000 jobs.
The announcement comes as Adams, a staunch supporter of Israel and Jewish communities, positions himself for the general election in November. While not running in the Democratic primary, Adams took a swipe at opponents who support the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
“Some politicians running for mayor want to disinvest from Israel,” Adams said. “Well, they’ve got another thing coming. As long as I’m mayor, we’ll be investing in Israel.”
The announcement follows Adams’ participation in the city’s annual pro-Israel parade and the formation of a new antisemitism task force—part of his ongoing outreach to Jewish voters amid a contentious mayoral race.
