According to the head of the Palestinian negotiator with Israel Saeb Erekat, a spokesman for the United States Dennis Ross has officially notified the PA leadership of its refusal to support the establishment of an independent “Palestinian state” and to ensure its adoption by the UN as an equal member of the organization. Erekat said that the veto will be cast the United States during discussions on this issue at a meeting of the UN Security Council, will not bring this issue to the General Assembly, the meeting will take place in New York in September this year. He stressed that he had repeatedly contacted the Washington administration, trying to convince Obama and his aides and officials of U.S. State Department, support the idea of ​​joining the PA to the international community of nations. At the same time, the Palestinians, he said, do not refuse treatment to the services of the UN General Assembly, where they secured an automatic majority on any issue in the future. However, Erekat demanded that Israel stop building in the territories and East Jerusalem, and to express public support for the thesis of return “to the 1967 borders.” He said that under this scenario, the Palestinians immediately return to the negotiating table and will be of appeal to the UN. (Nashe.orbita.co.il)

Hamas is considering a new strategy for non-participation in government, even if he wins the election. The aim is to ensure uninterrupted reception of foreign economic aid and the removal of the prospects boycott “a government of national unity” because of participation in the terrorist organization. Dignitaries of Hamas told the correspondent of Associated Press, that the idea was born during the secret talks on the formation of this government with Fatah, which took place in Turkey, Syria, Gaza and Egypt. The idea is extremely rigid expression of the fact that Hamas is under no circumstances would not agree to recognize Israel’s right to exist. Policies of Hamas are willing to give up ministerial seats comfortable only for the sake of it. On the other hand, they recognize that the direct participation of Hamas in the future government will lead to the cessation of aid from international donors, without which “Palestine” can not exist. Hamas also realized that the 4-year “experiment” in Gaza, he paid dearly politically. One of the top leaders of Hamas, who wished to remain anonymous, told Associated Press: “Hamas has found that staying in the government is doing great damage to his image, and therefore considering the possibility of policy changes.” Hamas attacked from two sides of the Palestinians accuse him of “softness”, pointing to the cessation of terrorist attacks using suicide bombers. Another part of the organization accuses Hamas rocket attacks on Israel, which lead to tight Israeli reaction. A survey conducted in March showed that Hamas supports only 26% of the Palestinians of Gaza and the West Bank, compared to 40% in 2006, when Hamas won the election. One of the political leaders of the movement, Yehya Moussa said: “Hamas is in the process of assessing their capacity and establish new priorities. Being in government has been a huge burden for Hamas, Hamas’s image for the masses.” The main supporter of the new political line is the head of Hamas’ politburo Khaled Machel. The Hamas leadership in Gaza, initially resisted, but now is showing signs that it is ready to accept the new line. The minimum budget for the Palestinian Authority is $ 3.2 billion. Third of the money comes from foreign investors, and another third – to transfer to an account of autonomy of customs duties Israel. Hamas understands the extreme vulnerability of financial autonomy, if he would be in the government and the ease with which both of these sources can be blocked. (Mignews.com)

Middle East Quartet Special Representative, Tony Blair said that “Arab Spring” made it impossible to progress in peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. Blair believes that in an environment of uncertainty, both parties are hesitant to make concessions, because their value is difficult to assess in light of the rapidly changing situation. He did not specify which prevented progress in the negotiations all the time when the Blair Quartet presented, and no revolutions in the Arab world as early as there was no trace. The former head of the British Government has turned his office into a purely decorative, without having done anything to normalize the situation and only occasionally expressing his concern. This time, he also portrayed her at the change of power in Egypt, pointing out that the change of an authoritarian, but predictable, Hosni Mubarak, in an unstable and unpredictable power is a big problem for Israel. (Isra.com)

Russia must withdraw its objection to the condemnation of Syria in the UN Security Council. This was stated by the speaker of the Knesset Reuven Rivlin during a meeting with Russian Ambassador to Israel Peter flanks, completing his cadence. “What does Syria, completely contrary to the values ​​of the free world. Not everything in the world politics, and in this case, we are talking about the problem, which is above the private interests of each party. This is the common interest of all civilized countries of the world” – said Rivlin. Earlier, Russia blocked a proposed draft resolution the UN Security Council strongly condemned Syria. After that, France and Britain proposed a milder version, which, in contrast to the previous clause provides that “the only possible way out of crisis precludes direct foreign intervention in the conflict.” The draft resolution condemned the Syrian government for the brutal suppression of protests. In contrast to the resolution on Libya, the document does not provide for a military operation against the Syrian authorities, or the imposition of sanctions. U.S. authorities have supported the draft resolution on Syria, State Department spokesman said yesterday Mark Toner. According to him, the adoption of this resolution would increase pressure on the Syrian authorities. Toner said that Washington is trying to persuade other Security Council members to support the resolution. Recall at the G8 summit, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev spoke strongly against the resolution on Syria. He stressed that sanctions against the country not the best way – you can see the situation in Libya. It is known that in addition to Russia against referring the case to the Security Council objected to Damascus, China and several Arab states. (Cursorinfo.co.il)

Moscow continues to pro-Syrian statement after refusing to support the UN Security Council resolution condemning the Bashar al-Assad for the systematic violation of human rights in their country. The official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Alexander Lukashevich said that Russia would oppose any anti-Syrian resolution in the UN Security Council. “The situation in Syria does not threaten the public peace and safety”, – he said at a news conference and stressed that Russia’s position is called “a great experience acquired in Libya.” Lukashevich did not stop there and urged the international community to give authorities an opportunity for the Syrian reform. Speaking to reporters today, he said: “The Syrian authorities have already taken some important steps towards the implementation of the stated change. Should be given time to implement them”, – said Lukaszewicz. Russia has also stated that oppose any attempts to question obuzhdat Syrian nuclear program to the IAEA. The agency today, a majority (with two votes against – Russia and China) decided to refer the issue of Syria’s nuclear program to the Security Council. So to vote on a resolution against Assad, to be held on Saturday, soon joined by one more vote – already on sanctions for secret nuclear research Damascus regime. (ZMAN.com)

The Iranian website “Gerdab” belonging to the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), has published an odd article that caused a stir in Western countries. The article is called “The day after the nuclear tests in Iran.” The article says that after the first day of testing nuclear weapons in Iran would be completely normal day, except that “the eyes of some Iranians will shine brighter because of national pride.” All the Western media come out with reports of an underground nuclear explosion in the Islamic republic, said “Gerdab.” This article was published on April 24, but has attracted attention only over a month later, against the background of statements by the Iranian authorities on plans to triple the amount of work to enrich uranium to a level of 20%, in defiance of the international community. Experts point out that this strange article may testify in favor of the suspicions about the military nature of Iran’s nuclear program. So far, Tehran has denied, that develops weapons. However, some commentators note that the article could apply to internal disputes in the Iranian leadership and do not reflect a consensus on creating a nuclear bomb. Iranian opposition earlier claimed that the site “Gerdab” created a special unit of the IRGC, involved in combating the cyber-space. The opposition lay in the unit responsible for finding bloggers who write anti-government records on the Internet. Recall, the head of the Iranian Organization for Atomic Energy Fereydoon Abbasi Davan said that, in response to the statements of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Yukiya Amano of suspicions over Iran’s nuclear program, the Islamic republic to triple the amount of work on uranium enrichment to the level of 20%. This post has caused concern in the West. The EU called on the IAEA Director General Yukiyu Amano as soon as possible to prepare a report on the alleged military aspects of the nuclear program of the Islamic Republic. (Newsru.co.il)

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad called for closer cooperation with countries such as Venezuela, Ecuador and Belarus, reported on June 9, Air Force News Service. “The support of independent, revolutionary states – one of the key strategic policy of Iran” – Ahmadinejad said at a governmental meeting. The Iranian leader has ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic republic “with all seriousness to follow the” process of rapprochement with the three listed countries. (ZMAN.com)

Emin Ulker Tarhan is deeply concerned about the future of Turkey. Until recently, the Supreme Court judge, decided to go with Tarhan prestigious job to go into politics and fight with the current Turkish government. 48-year-old woman entered the main opposition party in Turkey and hopes to get a seat on the county Ankara. “I decided to go into politics because of the current government and its policies intolerable, but as a judge I could not openly express their opinion on this matter,” – said Tarhan in a special interview to an Israeli newspaper “Yediot Aharonot”. Former judge sharply against the ruling party and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, saying that he behaves undemocratic and seek absolute power through repressive tactics. “We had a political assassination, which was never investigated. Around 60 journalists are in prison because of their professional activity, due to the fact that they wrote articles inconvenient regime” – she said, adding that all the national institutions are under pressure from the ruling party of Erdogan. “In order to strengthen the regime they are trying to take under its control the entire judicial system,” – she said. According to Tarhan, institutions of power in the hands of cronies Erdogan, routinely violate basic human rights. “The government is juggling issues of religious and ethnic identity in order to increase the polarization in society,” – adds a former judge. – It is not investigated corruption cases involving illegal financing of the ruling party. Civic organizations that oppose the government, put as opportunistic and entirely useless. “” Every day we are further away from democracy and the spirit of the law, “- says Tarhan. – The government behaves like an organized gang.” Regarding personality of the Prime Minister of Turkey, who has positioned himself as a tough critic of Israel, especially Tarhan uses harsh words. “Erdogan – not the prime minister of a democratic state. He wants to be a Middle Eastern sultan,” – she said. – The general, who did not rise to give honor to him at some event, was thrown into prison. This is typical behavior of a tyrant. All tyrants are alike, and all of them ultimately awaits the same fate “. (Mignews.com)

After almost 20 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan “delegated” the Turkish decision to consular matters of its citizens in Israel. Fears of losing the support of the Arabs and Iranians to provoke and not allowed to open a diplomatic mission in Baku, the Holy Land. Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry recommends fellow citizens who are in Israel, on all consular matters, including those relating to registration of the passport, contact the Turkish Embassy in Tel Aviv. It is said in response MFA press service of Azerbaijan on June 7, at the local treatment online publication Day.Az. “Yes, indeed, Israel has no embassy of Azerbaijan. But the Turkish embassy functions, which may apply to citizens of Azerbaijan to the loss of a document giving the right to enter the country. In addition, they can also apply to the Turkish Embassy in case of delay in the passport. The Embassy of the fraternal Azerbaijani citizens of the country will have all the necessary assistance in matters concerning the loss and delay in the passport. Here they explain what documents you need to collect for the issuance of a document, temporarily replacing a passport …”, – the press service of Foreign Ministry. Thus, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry in fact delegated its own consular service of the diplomatic department of another state. In international practice, such cases are extremely rare, and only when it comes to states that have no diplomatic relations or supporting communication to a minimum. For example, it was during the Soviet period, when the interests of the Soviet Union in Israel, represented the Embassy of Finland, and Israel in the Soviet Union – Embassy of the Netherlands. But as soon as Moscow and Jerusalem began to take cautious steps to restore diplomatic relations, in 1987-88, they shared their consular teams. Later, in September 1990, the parties signed an agreement to convert “sections to protect the interests” (consular teams) in the consulate, and that happened more than a year before the formal restoration of diplomatic relations. However, the situation in Azerbaijan is very different. In recent years, especially with the onset of the crisis in relations with Turkey, this country has become Israel’s main strategic and economic partner in the Muslim world. In the spring of 1992 Israel one of the first countries to recognize Azerbaijan’s independence, and two years later opened an embassy in Baku. “We opened an embassy in one of the first and expect reciprocal steps, but unfortunately, this did not happen” – said more than a decade later, the first consul of Israel to Azerbaijan Yaakov Bar-Shimon in an interview with “Nezavisimaya Gazeta”. Over time, especially given the intensification of partnership in the 2000s, the issue of opening of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Israel has become one of the most discussed topics in the context of bilateral relations. This is achieved not only the official Jerusalem and the Russian-speaking Israelis who came from Azerbaijan and the U.S. pro-Israel lobby. Back in 2002, Ilham Aliyev, who succeeded his father a year later as president of Azerbaijan, told the American Jewish Committee, which endorses the idea of ​​opening an embassy in Tel Aviv. In April 2003, his father, Heydar Aliyev, said that although this issue can be considered solved, this is not happening because of financial difficulties. In September, the Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Association of the Israel-Azerbaijan MK Roman Bronfman told the publication “News Week”, on his return from Baku that “representatives of the Azerbaijani authorities assured: the question of the embassy will be settled after the presidential elections to be held in October.” But in April of 2004, most members of the Azerbaijani Parliament rejected a proposal to open a number of colleagues, finally, the diplomatic mission in Tel Aviv. A year later, U.S. Rep. Tom Lantos, Robert Wexler and Gary Ackerman appealed in writing to the Heydar Aliyev with a call to open an embassy in Israel. “The Iranian factor is too strong in our region, and we can not ignore this. Even such a strong leader, as Heydar Aliyev, did not agree on this, knowing the possible consequences of …”, – explained later portal IzRus former advisor to Heydar Aliyev Foreign Policy Vafa Guluzade. “The agenda is not worth the creation of an embassy in Israel, this is something for the future” – said in January 2006, the local edition of “Media Forum” head of the Office of Information and Press Minister of Azerbaijan Tahir Taghizadeh. Former Ambassador of the Republic in Tehran Nasib Nasibli added: “The only reason for the lack of Azerbaijani Embassy in Israel is the pressure of Iran.”

After several months, in May 2006, against the background of Ilham Aliyev’s visit to the United States, official Washington turned to him to decide finally the question. And after a few days online publication Day.Az reported that “the Azerbaijani authorities practically gave their consent to open embassy in Israel.” “During the meeting of Azerbaijani President of the Jewish community in the U.S., the President did not rule out opening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Israel in the near future”, – said the same resource. However, as we know, this has not happened. Therefore, in 2007-2009, member of the Knesset, one of the main lobbyists for the bilateral relations with the Israeli side Yosef Chagall several times publicly offered to open in Tel Aviv at least a sales office in Azerbaijan. But this idea is so “up in the air.” “After this visit will increase the need to open an embassy” – these words President Shimon Peres diplomatically reminded about this issue, the official Baku in an interview with news agency Trend News on the eve of his visit to Azerbaijan in June 2009. “It’s bound to happen” (the opening of the Embassy) – Israel’s president expressed confidence. “We understand the complexity of the geopolitical situation in the region, but all the same to us, of course, would like to see the opening of the Azerbaijani embassy to the Holy Land,” – said in July that year, in an interview with the chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Association IzRus “Israel-Azerbaijan” Robert Ilatov. “In the context of bilateral relations between Israel and Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani embassy opening theme in Israel is constantly present. We have repeatedly said that this decision would be correct, and the dialogue continues on this theme” – added at the end of 2009 in an interview with Day. Az Yosef Chagall.

“In the future, Azerbaijan is going to open an embassy in Israel”, – assured the portal IzRus ambassador in Baku, Michael Lavon-Lotem, in February last year. And in January 2011, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mamedyarov told the Kuwait edition of “Al-Rai” which his country had not yet opened the embassy in Tel Aviv, as in favor of the existence of two states – Israel and Palestine. And two months later, the head of the Foreign Relations Office of the President of the Republic Mammadov said that in the case of opening an embassy in Israel risks losing the support of Azerbaijan Muslim countries (including in the context of the Karabakh conflict with Armenia). Thus, despite numerous requests from the official Jerusalem, calls the Jewish lobby in Washington and U.S. Azerbaijan for almost 20 years of diplomatic relations did not dare to open embassy in Israel. The reasons are obvious: the reluctance to exacerbate an already difficult relations with Iran, and fears losing the support of Muslim countries in the international arena, particularly in the confrontation with Armenia. As a consequence, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry is now “delegated” the Turkish decision to consular issues of its own citizens in Israel. (Izrus.co.il)

Turkish ship “Mavi Marmara” who participated last year in breaking the naval blockade of Gaza is once again ready to sail. Preparing the vessel for the new action does the organization HHI. The newspaper “Maariv” publishes an exclusive material correspondent in Istanbul to prepare the ship for a new voyage. Matan Drury, who had been on board, “Mavi Marmara” reports that the vessel wall is decorated with Palestinian flags, set in the passenger cabin of 700 new chairs for the participants of a breakthrough, as well as life jackets ready for all participants in the fleet. (“Courier”)

From official sources in the Gaza Strip became known that Hamas is weighing whether to opt out of future government in the Gaza Strip, even if its representatives would win the election. This decision, if adopted, prompted by a desire to prevent the global isolation of the new government in order to obtain economic assistance. This initiative was launched at a meeting of Hamas from the Gaza Strip, Judea and Samaria, Egypt and Syria, where the question of reconciliation with Fatah. (ZMAN.com)

Administration of Arab autonomy in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip does not abandon the intention to apply to the UN for recognition of its independent state and is ready to show “flexibility” to avoid a veto in the UN Security Council USA. Representatives of Fatah and Hamas said they would postpone completion of the process of establishing a joint interim government and elections to the governing bodies of the future state, and to complete the process begun after the deemed in Europe and the United States as legitimate leaders of Fatah appeal to the UN in September the recognition and get it. In this case scenario, the U.S. can be and will not give up the veto and prevent the adoption of “Palestine” in the UN, but the Committee on Human Rights at the UN where the U.S. has no veto power, can initiate a variety of sanctions against Israel. (7kanal.com)

The newspaper “Makor Rishon” published an article by Moshe Feiglin, entitled “My wife and I owned and neighbor”

Netanyahu speech before the U.S. Congress has made me an ambiguous impression. In these speeches, I attach much more importance to the principles and long-term paradigms than technical details. Will there be all the settlements, referred to whether the “Armistice Line” that existed before 1967, or not mentioned, it is proposed exchange of territories there – all this in my eyes no more than a smokescreen. In all the speeches of the most important is that imprinted in the minds of people, and above all in our minds – the minds of Israelis. That is what will determine the long term. After all, we have already seen that when the Lebanon or Gaza, are solely as a disaster, as a result there run without any connection with these or other details. From this point of view in a speech Netanyahu was extraordinarily important element – a clear statement that we are not occupiers of Judea and Samaria, it is the land of our forefathers. I remember the episode when we reserve battalion, stood on the instruction in a certain place for the “Green Line” before returning home. “When you come back to Israel,” – began his combat instruction. Without thinking, I picked up a stone and just threw it. I did it openly before all the soldiers, including in front of my subordinates. Everyone was in shock, but clearly understood the problem. Alas, the imposition of the Israelis a dangerous levoekstremistskogo narrative with one stone does not stop. But the clear words of the Prime Minister is to make possible.

For the average young Israeli, drafted to the army and after serving in Judea and Samaria, “returning to Israel,” a dismissal for a phrase Israelis on land of our forefathers is an important lesson that will bear fruit in the long run. So, from this point of view, well, that this phrase was uttered. But it was followed by a sequel. After the Prime Minister explained our relationship to Eretz Yisrael, he hastened to immediately abandon it. It sounded like the word about the wedding: “I take thee a wife – and himself and his neighbor …” I do not even know what immoral – the rejection of Eretz Yisrael those Jews who see in it some problems, or her willingness to share who declares its inextricable link to it. These politicians do not always need to understand word for word. I believe that, in contrast to the left, Mr. Netanyahu did not really want to give away part of the Land of Israel. When the time to promote “Oslo process” Shimon Peres addressed the chairman of the opposition Benjamin Netanyahu and said: “You what, deaf? Listen to what I’m talking to you! There will be no Palestinian state!” – He meant that would still like to be. And when Mr. Netanyahu said in his speech: “The State of Israel will be the first to support a Palestinian state” – I too would like to believe that he actually means the opposite.

Uttering a word about the “Palestinian state,” Netanyahu has resorted to a familiar tactic of “throwing of the ball on the ground the enemy.” That is, put up the conditions that the West seem logical, but with whom the Arabs certainly do not agree. It seems that settlers should be glad of such a tactic: negotiating and will not, and we are still in place, maintaining American support. And the Prime Minister is well disposed towards us, emphasizing our connection to Eretz Yisrael. From a pragmatic point of view, Netanyahu simply works miracles. But, as already mentioned, there is nothing more practical than a good theory, but a departure from the principles and pragmatic tactics can be harmful in the long run. No one remembers the many conditions of speech Netanyahu in the Bar-Ilan University, which he willingness to recognize the situation explained, “Palestinian state” and that trying to balance the negative impression of such recognition. All that remained of his speech in the public consciousness – is itself the proclamation of a “Palestinian state”. How Israel will behave if you try to break the regular ships to Gaza? How to respond when the next wave of terror and rocket attacks? As we will resist the continuation of the process delegitimize the Jewish state? It is impossible to justify all the time, Israeli politics alone, the necessity defense – the world no longer believes crocodile tears of those who publicly acknowledges that the Land of Israel belongs not to him alone. Whether Bibi gave the answer to all these burning questions or just confused everyone, like me? Whether it was due to a step in the right direction or, at best, marking time? (“Makor Rishon”)

June 9 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke at a conference on combating kiberterrorom at Tel Aviv University: “Israel should become a superpower computer. However, connecting to a denser network of the world, Israel is becoming more vulnerable. We deal with this problem on a par with the rest of the developed countries “, – said the prime minister. According to Netanyahu, in the development of computer technology Israel has concentrated its efforts on three areas – security, industry and academic research. “A reasonable combination of these trends will lead Israel to the forefront. It is very important in this business to act quickly, we are in a global chess game, and we need to play chess blitz – to identify opportunities and implement them immediately. Israel with their brilliant minds and colossal potential can enter the top five kiberderzhav world in the coming years, it is our goal, and I’m sure we achieve it “- said the prime minister. (Isra.com)

Benny Briskin, a former adviser to Benjamin Netanyahu, was the chief of staff of the Russian Jewish Congress (RJC) – the largest secular organization the Jewish diaspora in the country. June 6 presidium of the Russian Jewish Congress (RJC) voted for the appointment of ex-Councillor Benjamin Netanyahu Beni Briskina chief of staff of the largest Jewish organization in the country. Briskin since last summer is an advisor to President George RIVERS Kanner, who proposed his candidacy to head the unit. He was supported by major philanthropists, the Russian Jewish Congress, Mikhail Fridman, German Khan, David Yakobashvili and Leonid Melamed. Briskin said the portal IzRus, that new as his main aims are improving the status of rivers such as the leading organization of Russian Jewry, the development of international activities of the Congress and the strengthening of relations between Russia and Israel. “When last year, Yuri Kanner asked me to collaborate with the RJC, he outlined his vision – turning Russia” face Jerusalem. “I liked this concept because I can really contribute to the strengthening of ties between our countries. Soon, with my assistance, was organized the first large-scale visit of representatives of the RJC from different regions of Russia to Israel, their meeting with the leadership in Jerusalem. Then there was organized a visit of representatives of the RJC in the United States, where meetings were held with American Jewish leaders. So, I was involved in the work of the RJC, and my appointment for the post of chief of staff of the Congress was a logical conclusion of this process, “- said Briskin. (Izrus.co.il)

After a March visit to the Holy Land chapter of the Ukrainian government announced that an agreement to establish a free trade area with Israel will be signed before the end of 2011. Now, however, the publication “Kommersant” reported that Israel had lost interest in this initiative. As reported June 9 edition of “Kommersant-Ukraine”, the country is no longer a priority for Israel to create a free trade area (FTA). “In the explanatory memorandum, directed the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) in the Cabinet, says: in response to the numerous proposals of the Ukrainian side on the date of consultations the Director Administration of Foreign Trade of Israel Boaz Hirsh (Head of the Department of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Trade and Industry) reported that his country intends to concentrate on negotiations to establish FTAs ​​with India, Chile, Korea, Brazil and China. Ukraine, to “create a common economic rationale for the FTA,” – the newspaper notes. In turn, a source at the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Ukraine told “Kommersant “Kiev that expects to receive an official response of Jerusalem on the plans for the FTA on June 22-23 at the meeting of intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation. The issue of establishing a free trade zone is discussed Ukraine and Israel since late 2007. The parties planned to intensify the negotiations on this issue after signing the agreement on abolition of visa regime (which entered into force in February this year) and an agreement on promotion and mutual protection of investments (approved by the Verkhovna Rada of June 1). For the first time the initiative was announced by President Viktor Yushchenko during his visit to Israel in November 2007. Then, in April of 2008, there were more than a substantive discussion of this issue in the talks Deputy Foreign Minister in Jerusalem. Yuschenko again raised this subject during a meeting with President Peres at the next visit to Israel in May 2008. “To open entirely new market prospects and facilitate co-operation of manufacturers, after long analysis, we decided that a free trade zone with Ukraine … will be the best solution, “- said in a September 2009 interview to Deutsche Welle president of the Association of Israeli Chambers of Commerce, Uriel Lynn. He noted that under favorable conditions, such an agreement could be signed within two years (ie by autumn 2011 .) And three months later, the then Foreign Minister of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko said after talks with Israeli counterpart, Avigdor Lieberman, the parties have agreed to begin a dialogue to establish a free trade zone. But on December 12, answering the question, “how Ukraine and Israel came close the establishment of free trade, “Lieberman told the publication” The Mirror of the Week “:” Close enough. Error must be assumed that the key is the free trade regime. We have no two agreements – on mutual protection of investment and credit line between the two countries. “Judging from the statements of officials on both sides, in 2010, Jerusalem and Kiev have achieved tangible progress on this issue. In March, Minister for Tourism, visited Ukraine Stas Misezhnikov, head of the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation. Creating a free trade area has become one of the main topics of his talks with Deputy Minister of Economy, Natalia Boytsun. According to their results, press secretary of Minturizma Amnon Liebermann said: “The official Kiev intends to accelerate this process, so in the coming months lead to the creation of a free trade zone. In late April, will visit Israel group of Ukrainian experts to work out an appropriate legal framework. “And after talks with President Shimon Peres in November last year, his Ukrainian counterpart Viktor Yanukovych announced that the parties agreed to establish an FTA in 2011. December 30, talking about priorities of bilateral relations in the coming year, Ukraine’s ambassador to Israel, said Gennady Nadolenko portal IzRus, that the sixth session of the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation creating a free trade area will be given special attention. “begins in 2011 the positive dynamics of bilateral relations between Ukraine and Israel. It is very important agreements on mutual protection of investments and the abolition of visas. I hope that we can in the first half of the year to sign an agreement on free trade zone. Necessary to remove all barriers to trade between our countries “, – added January 4, Yoram Dori, a strategic advisor to President Shimon Peres. A month later, the Research Institute of Economy under the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Ukraine announced the creation of a report on the prospects of an FTA with Israel.” Ukraine is advantageous The free trade regime with Israel only in the case of reducing the country rates on imported agricultural products. Ukraine could increase exports of cereals, vegetable oil, sunflower seeds, butter, sugar and vegetables, which results in Ukraine 165 thousand jobs. Given that Ukraine has used lower rates of customs duties for imported goods from Israel, the negative consequences for Ukrainian producers to create an FTA is not expected, “- noted in this report. A February 10 Deputy Prime Minister Viktor Tikhonov said the government’s work is aimed at enhancing dialogue on the establishment of an FTA with Israel. “We expect to continue negotiations on this issue in the near term, since the signing of this agreement will open a wide range of mutually beneficial opportunities for trade. Further negotiations should be aimed at securing the agreement of high standards in ensuring transparency, competition, protection of national producers, “- said Tikhonov. After meeting with him, which was held in Kiev, said Stas Misezhnikov portal IzRus February 14:” In June for the sixth meeting of the intergovernmental commission on trade-economic cooperation, which will focus on creating a free trade zone. “18 of the same month, after talks in Jerusalem, Foreign Minister of Ukraine Konstantin Grishchenko said on this subject:” Any agreement on free trade zone aims seeks to promote the development of economic relations between countries, in particular due to the removal of customs duties, which entails the reduction of prices for products and services for consumers, expanding its presence in both countries in their domestic markets to each other … At the moment, the relevant executive authorities of Ukraine finishing an expert evaluation of the consequences of signing such an agreement for Ukrainian producers, after which negotiations will continue. “Particular attention was paid to the creation of an FTA during the March visit to Israel, Prime Minister of Ukraine Mykola Azarov. A week before his arrival, Ambassador Nadolenko reported that official Kiev strives for early signing of the agreement. He added that during the visit the parties plan to identify Azarov schedule of meetings of working groups to prepare this document. March 16 Azarov, and Lieberman held a joint press briefing, noting that the agreed establishing an expert group that will study of the FTA agreement. At the same time, answering our question, how Ukraine intends to Israeli investors preferential treatment, Azarov said: “To do this, we agree with Israel on a free trade zone. This will enable trade without customs, therefore, be a powerful tool eliminated the administrative burden. “And the next day, after returning to Kiev, the prime minister added that he plans to sign an agreement with Israel on the FTA before the end of this year. (Izrus.co.il)

Head of Economic Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Third Gil Haskell denied a report in “Kommersant-Ukraine” that Israel has lost interest in creating a free trade area (FTA) with the country. Israeli Foreign Ministry denied published June 9 edition of “Kommersant-Ukraine” message that this country is no longer a priority for Israel to create a free trade area (FTA). “In response to numerous proposals of the Ukrainian side on the date of consultations the Director Administration of Foreign Trade of Israel Boaz Hirsh (Head of the Department of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Trade and Industry) said that his country intends to concentrate on negotiations to establish FTAs ​​with India, Chile, Korea, Brazil and China. Ukraine, to “create a common economic rationale for the FTA,” – told “Kommersant-Ukraine.” Kil Haskell, who heads the Department of Foreign Economic third in charge of Eastern Europe, has denied the message in itself. According to him, the establishment of an FTA will discussed at the June 22-23 meeting of the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation in the Crimea. “Israel does not abandon the intention to create a free trade zone with Ukraine. We simply do not have enough manpower to come to grips with the treaty. However, a delay does not mean that we have decided to abandon our joint plans, “- said Haskell portal IzRus, recalling that this issue has already been agreed by the Presidents and Heads of Governments of both countries. According to our source, this kind of agreement being worked out by a small group experts. “They comprehensively review all the details, check out all the legal and economic aspects of cooperation. Indeed, Hirsch mentioned countries are at a more advanced stage (negotiation), but this does not mean that we will only deal with them. In other words, as soon as our experts are finished with India, Chile and other countries, then we’ll Ukraine “, – concluded Gil Haskell. Surrounded by the Minister of Tourism Stas Misezhnikov, who will head the Israeli delegation at the June meeting of the intergovernmental commission, declined to comment on the publication” Kommersant “. On the morning of June 9 IzRus portal also asked for a reaction to the press service of the Ministry of Trade and Industry. At the time of publication of this material was not a response is received. (izrus.co.il)

High-speed railway project in Jerusalem is slowly creeping towards the capital – along with the obstacles the project, which also do not disappear and are replaced only by following the route of Technology Office of the railways, cutting into the hill of Jerusalem. Head of City Council Mevasseret Ziona appealed to the Minister of Internal Affairs and Environment with a request to limit the production work on the tunnel lining around the city. He complains that busy building 200 meters from the town houses would harm the quality of life of citizens and cause irreparable harm to the nature of the Jerusalem suburbs. The tunnel near Mevasseret Ziona will be the longest in Israel – 11 km. His plan to build over four years from west to east – on the modern technique of using a machine TBM, which is used in the construction of the most complex of tunnels in the world today. Work performed under the ground, without prejudice to the nature and do not interfere with the inhabitants of the noise and dust. However, the Railway Administration intends to save time to start digging a tunnel from the east – on the old methodology, which involves crushing the rocks, the use of explosives, removal of waste material – with all the ensuing consequences. Head of City Council Mevasseret Ziona requires planned to limit work 6 days a week and only daylight hours. This will reduce the profitability of the project twice (Office intends to work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week), and he loses his appeal, and that counts for Arie Shamam and city residents. (ZMAN.com)

To prepare a second round of the Zionist movement “Or Tzion” were joined by new partners: the Moscow Jewish Religious Community, Educational organization “Mahanaim” and Israeli tour company Guide21, informational support was “Meeting Place” and other Israeli and Russian organizations. With such broad support for the Zionist second round was held with an even grander scale. The tour was timed to the day of the liberation of Jerusalem. In June 1967, after nearly two decades of Jordanian occupation, Israeli soldiers were freed Jerusalem and the Temple Mount. Participants in the tour have joined the traditional on this day “march of the flags” in Jerusalem through the Damascus Gate to the Temple Mount. Also, everyone could, in accordance with the recommendations of the rabbis, to rise on the Temple Mount itself, after immersion in the mikvah passing, once belonged to the famous Kabbalist Arizal. All participants of the tour took part in planting trees in the Land of Israel. This was the fourth organized movement “Or Tzion” planting trees in the Land of Israel for the current year. At this time of landing were made in the forest near Jerusalem, where the “Keren Kayemet Leisrael” completes the Jerusalem forest. This tour focused on the cities that were centers of Jewish life in the land of Israel at different times: Hebron, Shilo, Nablus, Jerusalem, Tiberias, Safed, Tel-Aviv Jaffa. In Hebron, the people with the creator of the museum of the city – Shmuel Mushnikov visited the Jewish quarter, now closed to public access (community district was destroyed during the pogroms of 1929). At Shiloh, together with the teacher of the Institute for Jewish Studies, “Machon Meir,” Rabbi Eliyahu Berezhinskim visited the excavations on the site, where about three thousand years ago, over 369 years was the portable Temple the Jews after their return from Egyptian slavery. Unfortunately, the entrance to the next important city in Jewish history – Nablus – where is the grave of ancestor of Joseph, for political reasons was not possible. Because a day dedicated to the city, members of the tour on Mount Gerizim had, a place where Jews were blessed at once after coming out of the desert, with a wonderful view of Nablus, and where now are comfortable cabins, allowing tourists to get acquainted not only with history but also current life of the settlers. Alon Lembritsky, Specialist Centre for Heritage Rambam in Tiberias, introduced the participants of the tour with a legacy of outstanding Jewish philosopher, rabbi and physician. About the Jewish culture and history of the tour participants have told the Russian-speaking specialists in the major TaNaKh and Jewish tradition Rabbi Zev Meshkov, Rabbi Asher Kushnir, renowned religious thinker Pinchas Polonsky, a specialist in family relationships Gdalevich Rica, the president of the Movement “Or Tzion” doctorate at the Sorbonne and Bar Ilan Levy Sheptovitsky. About current political issues and Israel’s options for their peaceful resolution of the participants of the tour was able to learn first-hand, through meetings at the Knesset with the representatives of the ruling coalition, including the chairman of the coalition Zeev Elkin, and with representatives of the opposition, including Dr. Arieh Eldad Ben Ari and Mihelem. Also in Hebron, all the participants joined the tour of wedding ceremonies of blessings – “Sheva Brachot” – on the occasion of a recent wedding, the creator of the first round, the coordinator of logistics and tourism in the “Or Tzion” Yael, and director of the movement “Or Tzion” Eliezer Friedland. During the tour with a group of Russian-speaking tour guides were the best of Israel, one of the creators of the first mass excursion to Israel in Russian Marina Vorobiev and a leading expert on the archeology of guides in Russian Arie Parnis. Also, the tour coordinator of the participants were accompanied by movements of “Or Tzion”. An important feature of the second round was that it began to join the Russian-speaking Israelis, many of whom lived more than 30 years in Israel, but some are born into it, have never been to those places where members of the group visited. With its broad organizational support and has already received during the first two rounds of the Zionist experience, it was decided to organize another short tour of eight “From our forefathers to return to Zion,” which charted at the end of July. It is obvious that the main differences between the Zionist tour of other programs are an opportunity for everyone to learn more deeply with Israel through the prism of Jewish history and tradition, and most of the financing of the budget travel by its own members. (“Courier”)

Industry and Trade Minister Shalom Simhon (fraction “Ha’atzmaut”) to the Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu letter in which he criticized the current government’s economic policy and, in particular, “the position of non-interference” in the monetary sphere. According to radio station “Kol Yisrael”, the letter contained a stern warning Simchon if the cabinet will continue to stand by idly as the depreciation of the dollar against the shekel, this will inevitably lead to the collapse of Israeli exports, and then to the collapse of the entire economy, as well as social sphere. Meanwhile, the second channel of the Israeli TV today released information about what Shalom Simhon, on behalf of his faction leader, Defense Minister Ehud Barak has Informal discussions with representatives of the party “Kadima” and, in particular, with the former speaker of the Knesset Dalia Itzik. Negotiating agenda includes discussion of the possibility of creating a “government of national unity” in which the smallest fraction “Ha’atzmaut” could play a significant role. (ZMAN.com)

National Insurance Services endirektor Dominisini Esther said June 9 in an interview with radio station “Galey IDF,” that the increase in retirement age for women from the current 62 to 64 years will cost the Treasury 2 billion shekels. Dominisini is a member of the public commission, which is now studying the question of raising the retirement age. Women’s organizations opposed to the fair sex went on vacation over the age of older than 62 years. In general director of “National Insurance” has its reasons: “The average life expectancy Israeli women – 83 years. Some of our compatriots, of course, by the time of retirement is depleted work stress. But in general I do not think labor punishment. Our fellow citizens live so long but we do not use the full potential of this enormous human. But the job market is very necessary experience and skills of veterans. Many women would be happy to work rather than sit around 20-30 years. ” According Dominisini if ​​the decision to raise the retirement age will be accepted, it will be implemented gradually. That is, the retirement age will rise by several months each year. In addition, as noted Dominisini, each additional year of service to the citizen’s pension benefit will be added 2%, while delaying the start of receiving the pension, the worker will receive an additional 5% gain each year. (Isra.com)

On the morning of June 9 in the District Court of Jerusalem, former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert went on to testify in the case “Rishonturs” (also known as business “Olmertturs” because of the charges against the former prime minister of charges relating to receiving illegal benefits from this travel agency). During the morning hearing Ehud Olmert was questioned about how he used accumulated as a result of numerous public and private flights “complimentary points,” which he accrued firm “Rishonturs.” In response, former Prime Minister said that due to employment of public affairs, he simply had no opportunity to delve into the details of this issue and fully trust his assistant Rachel (Rachel) Risby once. According to Olmert, the employees’ Rishonturs “and were counting points and incentives on the basis of these estimates were determined, how to be paid or that air travel then head of government. In addition, the ex-prime minister says he knew nothing about how to allocate received from the company “Rishonturs” complimentary points between family members and only Rachel Risby once may shed light on this complex issue. (ZMAN.com)

In Israel, a new airline, which was named Lead Air. The Civil Aviation Authority should issue her a license within the next month. To obtain a license a company must purchase a minimum of two passenger planes. Israeli media reported that at the moment is negotiating to buy two Boeing 737 aircraft in Europe. The company was established businessman Michael Weinstein with the support of several former leaders of El Al. Among the people who organized a company – foreign investors who chose to remain anonymous. The founders hoped that they would take a niche market, formed as a result of deprivation of license from Sun d’Or. (Mignews.com)

National Insurance Institute “National Insurance Institute” conducted spot checks on 450 families receiving benefits of various kinds. The audit found that 17% included in the random sample of families deceived state and received benefits inappropriately, according to TheMarker. 13% have been vetted completely deprived of benefits. Most often they were divorced women who received from the “National Insurance Institute” child support and forgot to announce that they have found a new mate. Another 4% of benefits have been cut – for example, the improvement in the state of the recipient’s disability benefits. TheMarker acknowledges that the sample was representative enough, as “National Insurance Institute” checked in the first place the categories of recipients who were considered the most “endangered” on the part of the fraud. According to the National Insurance Institute, Israeli woman receiving alimony from the state, very often “forget” to report on the establishment of a new family and give up the benefits. “Suspicious” is the category of disabled persons who became industrial injury – in the event that these people were working in the family business. During the inspection, for example, was denied benefits Courier-rider, falsely claiming that in an accident during working hours, not during a private visit. In other countries the level of fraud in relation to social services is 3-5%. If you cheat in Israel, “the National Insurance Institute” 5% of its customers, it means fraud totaling $ 3 billion shekels a year. If the proportion of cheaters is close to the one revealed last check, the budget spends on the wrongfully paid benefits is already about 9 billion shekels – and this is money taken from the pockets of law-abiding taxpayers. This year, came into effect legislative amendment, extending the powers of “the National Insurance Institute” in all matters relating to audits and penalties for those who receive benefits fraudulently. Now, National Insurance Institute is entitled to an administrative order to penalize cheaters and require them to return wrongfully obtained the amounts in full. (News.israelinfo.ru)

The broadcasting license 9 (Russian speaking) channel ITV extended by cable and satellite TV for another 6 years, the site of News1. The decision was made after careful analysis of demand for the channel and the size of its audience, as well as the fact that the administration fulfilled most of the commitments agreed upon in issuing the first license. (Izrus.co.il)

Security officer Shavei Shomron settlement, located between Tulkarm and Nablus, was found guilty of selling firearms to the Palestinians, said today portal mynet. Last week the High Court of Justice High Court rejected an appeal by lawyers Hizkiyagu Gursha convicted by a decision of the district court of the capital in nine years in prison. Among the weapons sold to suspected Palestinian militants in April 2006, two automatic M-16 rifles, six stores of ammunition and a bulletproof vest. The Palestinians have paid Gurshu, who had a large debt to the bank, 15,000 shekels in cash. After the implementation of rifles suspect filed a report about the theft issue weapons. In three other cases, the convicted militants set M-16 rifles and ammunition to them for the sum of 53,000 shekels. Dismissing the appeal the suspect, the judge expressed outrage and action Gursha reported that arms sales to residents of PA, being in contact with the terrorists of Hamas, is a serious crime that puts in jeopardy the safety of civilians in Israel. (Nashe.orbita.co.il)

Dozens of activists, “Free Israel” held a demonstration outside the Chief Rabbinate in Jerusalem, demanding the legitimate institution of civil marriage. Police said that violations of the order during the rally is not marked. As the radio station “Galya-IDF”, participants chained to each other, thus symbolizing that the religious community do not leave them no choice. Recall that at the present time in Israel legalized civil unions for non-Jews. Other citizens can register a relationship only after they prove their Jewishness in the rabbinate, and turn the services of a rabbi. Mixed marriages are made outside of Israel, mostly in Cyprus and Bulgaria. We add that an introduction to the Israel Institute for civil marriages – one of the main election promises of the NDI and the coalition agreements that the party with the Likud in forming a government. (Cursorinfo.co.il)

In the West German Augsburg June 7 at age 91, died Mitek (Mieczyslaw) Pemper – a man, who composed the famous “Schindler’s List.” Name Pempera, a native of Krakow, and a Jew by descent, known to few. He was an assistant to a German businessman Oskar Schindler, who saved during the war, condemned by the Nazis for extermination of the Jews. Being a prisoner Pemper acting clerk and stenographer commandant of a concentration camp “Plašil” in Krakow, SS Amon Goethe. And later, at the risk of life, it was he who composed for the famous Schindler’s list, which will save about 1,200 people. “I owned extensive information on each prisoner (serial number, date of birth, occupation, etc.). We talked about that, if prisoners at the Krakow concentration camp will be run by the army, they were not sent to Auschwitz (Oswiecim) to certain death. After a while Schindler was contacted with influential friends in Berlin and was able to convince them that for the sake of victory he needed specialists Jews, 1,100 people. Incredibly, he received permission from Berlin to pick up in a concentration camp for Jews, their factory-specialists ” – later recalled Pemper. After the war he studied Pemper psychology and sociology, advised shot in 1993 by world-renowned American movie director Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List.” In 2001 he was awarded the Federal Cross “For Merits” of the first class in 2007, the Israeli embassy in Berlin also presented Pemperu Medal for “saving lives”, the same was posthumously awarded Schindler himself. Six years ago, Pemper became an honorary citizen of Augsburg. (Mignews.com)

June 26 in the Azerbaijani city of Gabala will become a traditional music festival. At the opening of the first festival in 2009, Israel was represented by the Symphony Orchestra of Raanana. The largest Israeli news agency named the team then participated in Ra’anana in this festival start a new trend in cultural cooperation between the two countries. This year, the Israeli delegation will attract more attention. The Israeli ambassador in Baku said Michael Lavon portal IzRus, that our country will be the center of Ballet Dalal Susan. “As a rule, the festival involves only music groups, but Israel made an exception. Our artists bring their new production of Rooster … is a terrific show, which is a modern ballet and dance, and Eastern European music. I am sure that the Azerbaijani audience will be delighted, “- he said. A total of 18 people fly out of Azerbaijan. Production, as well as all concerts will be held outdoors. At the festival will feature musicians from the former Soviet republics, Europe and the USA. Speech by the Israeli company will be shown, apparently, one of the largest television republic. (Izrus.co.il)