VICE PRIME MINISTER

Dear Participants of the UJC Negev Conference in Miami,
 
On behalf of the Government of Israel, I would like to send my greetings and best wishes to those participating in UJC's Negev Conference in Miami this week.
 
Since the days of our first prime minister, David Ben-Gurion, the development of the Negev has been one of the most important goals of the State of Israel. As the Minister in charge of this development, I am overjoyed and highly impressed by the large number of our friends in North America who are similarly dedicated to this cause.
 
It is clear to me that a top-notch program has been prepared, including presentations and discussions by some of the foremost experts and visionaries who are passionate about the Negev. I applaud UJC and the federations involved for this effort.
 
Allow me now to wish you the very best of luck with your deliberations. I am looking forward to hearing the results so that we can all move forward together, furthering this significant and strategic goal.
 
With best wishes,
Silvan Shalom