We do not plan to intervene directly in the business of the private sector but rather to further develop public-private sector partnership. …
Palestine now ranks 138th on the World Bank’s “Doing Business” indicator. This means there are 137 countries that are considered to have better conditions for investment. In order to compete regionally and globally we need to improve on this. Efforts will be required across the board. …
There is obviously a huge demand for the affordable housing that is being developed by the private sector. When you consider all of the potential projects you realize that there is an enormous amount of infrastructure and funding that is required. The resources of the PA cannot cover this. On this basis we are currently working to try and secure the necessary funding from international donors. Negotiations are currently taking place between the government and the donors regarding their support to the PA for next year and beyond. A very big part of this discussion concerns the particular need for infrastructure to support affordable housing development. …
We are currently in the process of drafting our new three year plan, for the years 2011-2013. The economic section of the plan will be structured around six sub-sectors: agriculture, tourism and antiquities, housing, communications and IT, employment and national economy. We hope to have the first draft ready by the end of the year and a final document 6-8 weeks after that. The plan will be a continuation of existing plans, focusing on building the economy and the institutions of a state, but with the Palestinians firmly in the driving seat. Access the full interview>>
