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AUSTIN, TEXAS – Last month, the Texas Association of Business (TAB) led a bipartisan delegation of legislators and state leaders to Israel. The trip served as both a trade mission and a demonstration of solidarity with our great ally. It offered a firsthand view of the destruction wrought by the Hamas terrorist attacks on October 7, while also showcasing the resilience and determination of the people as they rebuild and look forward to the future.
During our visit, we met with high-ranking officials at the Knesset, toured universities, and visited businesses and economic development organizations. From water solutions by Israeli desert-tech to AI advances to critical defense technologies, these interactions highlighted the many commonalities between Texas and Israel and the opportunities for increased collaboration.
The bipartisan delegation consisted of Rep. Ben Bumgarner (R-HD 63), Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-HD 98), Rep. Mano DeAyala (R-HD 133), Rep. Stan Gerdes (R-HD 17), Rep. Ryan Guillen (R-HD 31), Rep. Lacey Hull (R-HD 138), Rep. Christian Manuel (D-HD 22), Rep. Armando "Mando" Martinez (D-HD 39), Rep. Mary Ann Perez (D-HD 144), Rep. Richard Raymond (D-HD 42), Rep. Shelby Slawson (R-HD 59).
Joining the legislators were Ray Martinez III, President of the Texas Association of Community Colleges (TACC), Massey Villareal, Chairman of TAB, Glenn Hamer, President and CEO of TAB, Megan Mauro, EVP and Chief of Staff at TAB, Gabriela Perdichizzi, VP of Policy & Communications at TAB, and Luis Saenz, President of TX Public Affairs.
The delegation issued the following statements:
Texas State Representative Ben Bumgarner (R- HD 63) said, "Visiting Israel during this difficult time provided a unique perspective on the strength and ingenuity of its people. Our trip underscored the importance of standing with our allies and ensuring that we are thoughtful and strategic in our policymaking. The discussions we had, particularly around technological advancements and defense, highlighted the shared values and aspirations between Texas and Israel. This bipartisan delegation reinforced that our support for Israel transcends political differences, focusing on a partnership that benefits both regions. I am committed to fostering this relationship, ensuring it translates into meaningful and innovative policies for the future."
Texas State Representative Giovanni Capriglione (R-HD 98) said, “Visiting Israel and engaging with leaders in various sectors was an incredibly enriching experience. The trip underscored the immense potential for collaboration, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, where I had the opportunity to speak on a panel during AI Week at Tel Aviv University. Throughout the trip, witnessing the resilience of the Israeli people in the face of the October 7 tragedy was profoundly moving. Our bipartisan delegation reaffirmed Texas’ support for Israel, focusing on shared goals and mutual benefits. I am excited about the future opportunities for partnership and innovation between Texas and Israel.”
Texas State Representative Mano DeAyala (R-HD 133) said, “This was an amazing and eye-opening experience. Our bi-partisan delegation participated in several meetings with Israel government, business and academic leaders. From Israeli’s Minister of the Economy, Speaker of the Knesset (Israeli Parliament), and Minister of Defense we were briefed on the October 7th Hamas attack and its aftermath; From its University leaders, we were briefed on Israeli’s innovations, successes and desire to collaborate with Texas Universities; from its business leaders we were briefed on Israeli’s growing economy, leadership in new technologies, and willingness to partner with Texas business. Israel and Texas – the two Lone Star States – have much in common. Our visit, especially at this time in Israel’s history, was special. Our new friends welcomed us with open arms grateful for our support in the aftermath of October 7th Hamas attack. The resilience and unity of the Israeli people is inspiring. Bring Them Home Now!!!”
Texas State Representative Stan Gerdes (R-HD 17) said, “I recently had the opportunity to return to Israel, following my first visit in 2019 while serving in the Trump administration. It was another profoundly impactful experience, showcasing the strength and resilience of its people amidst adversity. The exchange of ideas and innovations, particularly in areas like defense technology and water management, has the potential to greatly benefit both Texas and Israel. Our commitment to fostering this invaluable relationship is stronger than ever, and I am confident that our continued collaboration will yield significant advancements for both regions. Supporting Israel and strengthening our partnership is not a partisan issue; it is a testament to our shared values and mutual goals.”
Texas State Representative Ryan Guillen (R-HD 31) said, “Visiting Israel has been an eye-opening experience, showcasing the country’s incredible resilience and groundbreaking advancements. The knowledge and technologies we’ve encountered are crucial for fostering deeper ties between Texas and Israel. This trip highlights our bipartisan commitment to shared innovation and economic growth. Both Texas and Israel embody a pioneering spirit, and by working together, we can achieve remarkable progress. I am proud to support Israel and look forward to the collaborative opportunities that will benefit both our regions.”
Texas State Representative Lacey Hull (R-HD 138) said, "Our visit to Israel was both enlightening and deeply moving. The innovation and resilience of the Israeli people, especially in the face of the October 7th tragedy, left a lasting impression. Engaging with leaders in various sectors revealed numerous opportunities for collaboration, particularly in advanced technology and workforce development. Supporting our ally Israel is crucial, as our partnership is founded on shared values of resilience, innovation, and determination. This delegation made it clear that support for Israel is a shared commitment beyond political affiliations. Strengthening our bond with Israel will undoubtedly lead to remarkable advancements and a brighter future for both regions.”
Texas State Representative Christian Manuel (D-HD 22) said, “Visiting Israel was an eye-opening experience that gave me new insights. The value of that visit was incredibly important. The inspiring people we met and the incredible innovation we witnessed hold immense potential benefits for Texas as well. From advanced defense technologies to cutting-edge water and agriculture solutions, the shared interests, needs, and values between Texas and Israel were abundantly clear. This trip highlighted the critical economic need for Texas to continue supporting partners like Israel. Together, we can drive forward-looking policies that address our mutual challenges and capitalize on our collective strengths.
Texas State Representative Mary Ann Perez (D-HD 144) said, "Our recent time in Israel was an enlightening experience, highlighting the forward-looking and resilient mindset of its people in the face of great adversity and loss. The strong, innovative spirit of Israel is truly remarkable. I am excited about the future we can build together, leveraging our strengths to drive progress and innovation. Meeting with Israeli government officials, business leaders, and everyday people was profoundly impactful, and it was a privilege to take part in this experience."
Texas State Representative Armando Martinez (D-HD 39) said, "My time in Israel was a deeply moving experience, as we witnessed firsthand the horrific destruction and heard personal stories of survival and loss. The unbreakable spirit of the Israeli people in the face of such adversity was truly humbling and inspiring. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to support our ally Israel as they stand on the front lines of democracy. The shared values and strong economic ties between Texas and Israel highlight the importance of our continued partnership. I am proud to support Israel and am committed to fostering this important relationship.”
Texas State Representative Richard Raymond (D-HD 42) said, "Experiencing Israel firsthand was incredibly enlightening, underscoring the remarkable resilience and innovation of its people. The insights gained, particularly in advanced technologies and economic development, are invaluable for fostering stronger ties between Texas and Israel. This delegation exemplifies that support for Israel transcends party lines, highlighting our collective commitment to shared progress and innovation. I am proud to stand with Israel and am excited about the collaborative opportunities that lie ahead for our two regions."
Texas State Representative Shelby Slawson (R-HD 59) said, “Visiting Israel as a part of a Texas bi-partisan delegation was an incredibly educational and moving experience. The Israeli people’s steadfast commitment to innovation even in the face of great adversity and devastating attacks underscores the importance of our continued partnership with them. Their technological advances in many areas, including agriscience and water preservation, offer valuable lessons for us Texans. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this trip and look forward to continuing to support our ally, Israel.”
TACC President & CEO Ray Martinez III said, “The delegation trip to Israel was an invaluable experience, particularly our visits to Ben Gurion University and Tel Aviv University. The insights gained into Israel's advancements in cyber security and space technology were remarkable and truly inspiring. The integration of cutting-edge technology in various sectors, especially in education and industry, provided valuable perspectives that I am eager to share with our Texas community colleges. I’m excited to explore new avenues for collaboration that could offer students unparalleled opportunities to enhance their skills and prepare for the demands of the global workforce.”
"Israel's determination and innovation in the face of adversity are truly inspiring,” said TAB Chairman Massey Villareal. “Our visit reinforced the importance of our partnership and the mutual benefits of working closely together. Our two economies have enjoyed a strong partnership, characterized by mutual respect, innovation, and growth. As the ‘Scale-up State,’ Texas shares common ground with Israel's innovation economy, making us ideal partners for the continued support for and success of Israel's ‘Start Up Nation.’ Texas will continue to stand with Israel, supporting their efforts and learning from their advancements. We are committed to fostering this relationship for the benefit of both regions and look forward to exploring new opportunities for collaboration."
TAB President & CEO Glenn Hamer said: "Our delegation witnessed firsthand the remarkable strength and resilience of the Israeli people. Despite the challenges they face, their determination to innovate and persevere is profoundly moving. The collaborative opportunities in AI, space, technology, defense, and water management, along with other critical industries, are immense. This trip reaffirmed our commitment to strengthening the Texas-Israel relationship, ensuring mutual benefit from shared knowledge and innovation. Both Texas and Israel are known for their pioneering spirit, their resilience in the face of challenges, and their unwavering commitment to economic growth and innovation. Together, we are even stronger, which is why the Texas business community unequivocally stands with our great ally Israel. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we can harness the power of our combined expertise, creativity, and determination to build a brighter, more prosperous future for both Texas and Israel.”
“Texas and Israel have long been natural partners, as we share a distinct spirit of innovation that has driven both our economies to thrive,” said Rolando Pablos, Chair of TAB’s International Trade and Commerce Committee. “As Israelis and the Israeli business community face unprecedented challenges, it is more important than ever for the Texas business community to fortify and strengthen our relationships with our partners in Israel to demonstrate our unwavering support for them. I am proud of the work TAB leadership has undertaken to show our solidarity with Israel while exploring new ways we can collaborate and build new bonds with Israeli entrepreneurs and business leaders to further enrich Texas’ outstanding economic environment.”
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