Israel's Ministry of Economy and Industry to Boost Druze and Circassian Sectors

The Ministry of Economy and Industry announced yesterday that it will promote economic development plans in the Druze and Circassian sectors, with an investment of about 148 million shekels. The plan includes:

Development of industrial zones - The Ministry of Economy and Industry will formulate, in consultation with the Development Authority in the Prime Minister's Office, a plan for completing the planning and development of industrial zones, including participation in the development and management costs of the new and existing industrial zones.

Unique new human capital tracks: The Investment Authority will formulate a unique CEO directive for the integration of new Druze and Circassian community workers in the labor market.

Human capital tracks in knowledge-intensive industry: The Investment Authority will prioritize requests in the establishment programs of new factories and companies, under CEO directives 4.18 and 4.20 operated by the Investment Authority.

Advanced production and innovation: In order to raise the level of innovation and productivity in industrial factories, the Investment Authority will prioritize, under CEO directive 4.68, requests submitted by factories from the program's settlements.

Assistance to small and medium businesses: The Small and Medium Business Agency in the Ministry of Economy and Industry will work to encourage, promote and develop small and medium businesses in the program's settlements.

Professional training: The Ministry of Economy and Industry will publish a dedicated quota under CEO directive 1.8 for employers and workers who are residents of the settlements included in the program.

Accessibility of information on the ministry's activities: The Ministry of Economy and Industry will work to promote implementation and increase exposure and familiarity with the ministry's assistance tools among the Druze and Circassian populations.

Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat, said: "The recent months have once again proven the great commitment of the Druze and Circassian communities to Israel's security. Alongside their tremendous contribution to service in the IDF and to the defense of the country, it is our duty to ensure their economic development and strengthen the settlements in which they live. Today we are launching an unprecedented program that will provide them with new opportunities, encourage quality employment and consolidate their economic status. The Government of Israel is committed to continuing to strengthen the Druze and Circassian society, out of deep appreciation for their work and their contribution to the country."