During the four-year period of 2000-2006, bilateral trade increased by 78%. The main Israeli exports to Greece are chemicals (29%), high tech (27%) and plastics and rubber
The joint economic committee met in Jerusalem last week to discuss mutual economic & trade issues.
The Greek delegation was headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Evripidis Stylianidis and the Israeli delegation was headed by Mr. Ely Ishai, Minister of Industry, Trade and Labour.
The Minister said prior to the meeting that “Our bilateral economic relations are particularly impressive. During the four-year period of 2000-2006, bilateral trade increased by 78%, reaching 518 million dollars. Today, Israel is the primary destination for Greek exports to the Middle East. Greece holds an important position among 37 countries in Europe (10th) including EU countries for Israeli exports. We believe that we have just started taking advantage of the possibilities for bilateral cooperation and that in the next few years trade can reach one billion dollars.
Michael Khoury, Commercial Attache of the Embassy of Israel in Athens, said “In terms of relations with Greece, Israel views Greece as a strategic trade partner in the region. This is due to the fact that Greece is an economic leader in the Balkan region and Southeastern Europe and can develop into the capital – financial centre in the area. In addition, Greek – Israeli trade relations are developing at an impressive pace. Bilateral trade is more or less balanced with Israeli exporting $270 million in products to Greece, while Greek exports to Israel reached $250 million. These numbers do not include services. The main Israeli exports to Greece are chemicals (29%), high tech (27%) and plastics and rubber. Greece’s main exports to Israel are foodstuffs (16%), chemicals (12%), metals (11%), plastics and rubber (10%) and textiles (10%).”
The committee began discussions on the setting up of five bilateral agreements in the areas of standards, customs cooperation, marine, aviation and land transport.
