In support of the Palestinian Authority (PA), the U.S. Government will provide $3 million in USAID development projects in the Jenin Governorate. The announcement of these projects was made by U.S. Consul General Jake Walles in the city of Jenin during a ceremony on May 28 presided over by PA Prime Minister Salam Fayyad and Governor Qaddoura Mousa. Consul General Walles noted that the funding will assist the PA in providing services to the citizens of Jenin; support local businesses; and rehabilitate schools, health clinics and hospitals. Walles stated that these projects would strengthen the local economy and improve the daily lives of Jenin residents.

The Consul General praised the ongoing PA security operation in the Governorate. He noted that these development projects will complement security efforts by improving economic conditions and bringing long-term benefits to the people of the Governorate.

USAID Country Director for the West Bank and Gaza Howard Sumka highlighted the benefits of the projects to the area’s most precious resource – its children. He noted that the projects will benefit children and the entire population of the Governorate through the renovation of schools and health facilities, while also encouraging the creation of private sector jobs and the improvement of governmental services.

Consul General Walles reiterated the determination of the United States to assist in the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of President Bush’s vision of two states living side by side in peace and security. He noted that President Bush explained, in his recent comments at Sharm al-Sheikh, that he considers the establishment of a Palestinian state to be an opportunity to end Palestinians’ suffering. The Consul General noted that the achievement of an agreement between the Palestinians and Israel before the end of the year remains a top objective for the United States.