New York City Mayor Eric Adams attended a festive dinner at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem alongside Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat, where he spoke about his special connection to the State of Israel and his steadfast support for it.
Adams, the outgoing mayor of New York City, during his current visit to Israel, participated in a special event at the King David Hotel, attended by Barkat; the director-general of the Economy and Industry Ministry, Mr. Moti Gamish; and the president of the Manufacturers Association, Dr. Ron Tomer.
During the event, Adams repeatedly emphasized his special bond with Israel. “My love for Israel is not an event of the moment; it is an ongoing commitment to the values of freedom, security, and prosperity.”
Israel, he added and stressed, “represents courage, resilience, and a clear moral compass, and I am proud to stand by its side. The friendship between New York and Israel is built on trust, on deep human connection, and on unwavering loyalty.”
The gathering, hosted by Avi Balashnikov, the chair of Ronald Lauder Centers in Israel for promoting employment in the Negev and the Galilee, and chair of the Israel Export Institute, included a festive dinner with the participation of additional senior figures from Israel’s economic and industrial sectors.
It was held as part of deepening economic cooperation between Israel and one of the most influential cities in the world, with the aim of strengthening business and community ties between Jerusalem and New York.
In his remarks of appreciation, Balashnikov expressed his admiration for Adams’s actions: “Your presence in Jerusalem is a profound expression of friendship, determination, and standing by Israel in its most critical moments. We appreciate your commitment and your uncompromising support, and we see New York as a natural partner in economic growth, innovation, and shared values.”
Barkat also thanked Adams for his steadfast support of Israel and emphasized that “in our tradition, gratitude is a fundamental value. And you, Mr. Adams, truly stood by us – not as an institution and not as a city, but as a person with deep commitment to Israel and to the Jewish people. During your tenure, you helped establish the Israel-New York Economic Council, which has become a living bridge between our communities and our businesses.”
Barkat concluded his remarks by saying that “the friendship between you and Israel proves again and again that one plus one can equal far more than two.”