Interest in Biotechnology: Phoenix City Councilman Travels to Israel

"Phoenix City Councilman Greg Stanton was part of a delegation of 25 that traveled last week to Ramat-Gan, Israel, a new sister city to Phoenix that could build on the city's interest in biotechnology. "I think we'll have a long-term relationship and one that will be fruitful for Phoenix and Ramat-Gan because of the exchange of ideas," Stanton said.

A city of about 150,000, Ramat-Gan is regarded as a leader in biotechnology, said Stanton, adding that Phoenix's T-Gen program makes for a logical fit. "They are doing a lot of biotech research," Stanton said. "It will be an opportunity for research and exchange with scientists." Stanton also cited the city's experiences in dealing with water conservation issues as well as its approach to airport security as further reason for the partnership.

Ramat-Gan is the latest and 10th municipality to be a Phoenix Sister City. The Phoenix City Council approved the addition to the program in May. The delegation on the trip included airport and city officials and representatives of a group that lobbied for the Israel city's inclusion into the program.

Stanton said the trip was paid for through fund-raising. Stanton paid for his wife, Nicole, to accompany him."

Source: Nedra Lindsey. Stanton travels to Israel. The Arizona Republic (9 June 2005) [FullText]