Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich met on Wednesday with US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. The meeting was the first between the US Treasury and a member of the Israeli government since former President Joe Biden took office. At the start of the meeting, Smotrich expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump and his staff for "their unequivocal support for the State of Israel in the existential war that it is fighting." A joint statement noted that the Secretary and the Minister "reaffirmed the strong and enduring commitment of both nations to a strategic economic partnership. Their discussions highlighted the importance of deepening economic cooperation, fostering innovation, and strengthening financial and trade ties." The parties further stated: "This is a critical time to shape a new strategic economic future for both countries, reinforcing American global leadership and Israel’s role as a key economic partner. To advance shared economic interests, both sides agreed to strengthen dialogue mechanisms to enhance collaboration in key areas, including economic policy, technology, and financial regulation. As longstanding partners, the United States and Israel recognize the vital role of their economic relationship in driving growth and prosperity for both nations." According to the statement: "Today's meeting marks a significant step in further strengthening US-Israel economic ties. Now, more than ever, a coordinated and forward-looking approach is essential to ensure that this partnership remains a source of economic resilience, innovation, and mutual benefit." It concluded: "Both parties look forward to continued collaboration and deeper coordination across economic, technological, and financial policy areas to further reinforce bilateral economic relations." Before the meeting, Minister Smotrich stated: "After four years under the Biden administration during which no ministerial-level meeting was held between the US Treasury and the Israeli government - we are entering the US Treasury for a very important meeting. In this meeting, we will lay the base for a strong economic-strategic partnership between the nations. I am convinced that the strengthening of the partnership between us can lead to mutual growth, development, and prosperity for the good of both nations."
