Statement Following Minister Oliver's Meeting With Israeli Minister Silvan Shalom
JERUSALEM, ISRAEL--(Marketwired - May 1, 2013) - The Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, issued this statement following his meeting with the Israeli Minister for Energy and Water Resources, Silvan Shalom:
"Minister Shalom and I had an excellent meeting, during which we discussed our shared responsibilities. In particular we both see tremendous opportunities for Canada and Israel to cooperate more closely on energy issues.
"Canada and Israel have a mutually beneficial opportunity to deepen our bilateral energy cooperation. In particular, Israel's recent discoveries of significant offshore gas provide the basis for further collaboration. It is my hope that this visit results in new partnerships between our two countries.
"During my last visit to Israel in June, 2012, Canada and Israel agreed to pursue further cooperation on energy issues, including offshore oil and gas exploration and development, new sources of oil and gas supply and renewable energy. Both countries also agreed to encourage enhanced commercial cooperation between interested companies in the energy sector.
"Canadian companies have expertise in energy-related services and technologies, which would be helpful in developing this sector in Israel. They are also interested in investing in Israel's offshore, and some are already involved in oil and gas exploration activities there.
"Israel's current state of oil shale resource development has similarities to the early days of Canada's oil sands and we are pleased to share Canada's experiences with respect to policy and regulation.
"Science, technology and innovation are important elements of our bilateral relationship, and our two countries have a strong tradition of cooperation in this area. I am pleased that last week we sent out a Call for Proposals under the Canada-Israel Energy Science and Technology Fund.
"The Government of Canada's focus is jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. By working together, we will succeed in helping both of our countries reach their full energy potential, while building on our strong stewardship of the environment."
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