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News Brief No. 9; February 5, 1999
World Economic Forum, International Committee and new Infrastructure Project
World Economic Forum - At the World Economic Forum held in Davos (Jan. 28- Feb.2,1999), the Bethlehem 2000 Project was given considerable prominence through the allocation of an entire conference session to the Project. Palestinian President Yasser Arafat headed the Palestinian delegation, which included Bethlehem 2000 Project Minister and Coordinator General Dr. Nabeel Kassis.
Dr. Kassis finalised contracts on behalf of the Bethlehem 2000 Project with Arthur Andersen and WTTC. Arthur Anderson will spearhead a new fundraising campaign necessary for the Bethlehem 2000 to complete its essential projects in the areas of tourism development, infrastructure, cultural heritage, essential city services and development of venues. At Davos, the Bethlehem 2000 Project Authority and the Palestinian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities signed an agreement with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in which the Council committed itself to helping the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) in developing the Travel and Tourism Industry. As a specific means to contribute to the efforts of the Bethlehem 2000 Project Authority, the three entities have agreed to work together to make Bethlehem the First Middle East Green Globe Destination
Klaus Schwab, President of the World Economic Forum, announced at Davos that the Forum intends to hold the annual Middle East and North Africa Economic Summit (MENA) in Bethlehem during the fall of 2000, incorporating it into the program of events planned to mark the beginning of the new millennium. IMG signs on with the Bethlehem 2000 Project
The International Management Group (IMG) signed a contract with the Bethlehem 2000 Project. The Group will provide advice on planning, management and implementation of the 16-months calendar of events; the group will also develop and stage events. IMG will be in charge of sponsorships for the staging and production of events.
The International Committee - Pope John Paul II has agreed to be a member of the International Committee of the Bethlehem 2000 Project, which was initiated by Palestinian President Yasser Arafat. The Pope joins several world leaders who have already agreed to be members of this honorary committee.
Jerusalem-Hebron Road - Infrastructure projects were given yet another boost when Bethlehem 2000 Project signed contracts with two local contracting firms to rehabilitate two important sections of the Bethlehem-Hebron road. |
