By Katia Hadjiyska , iF Magazine Contributing Reporter / EnCourage Companies President
rael and the people of the Southwest United States . These bridges enable the two peoples to better know each other , cooperate and work together in the fields of politics , economics , media , culture , science and academia , religion , and more .
In practical terms , throughout the Southwest , I meet many people from all spheres of life . I present Israel to them , arouse their interest in it , and assist them in making the appropriate contacts to help them accomplish their goals and ambitions .
Katia : Tell us about the Consulate General of Israel to the Southwest United States . What parts of America are covered by the Consulate and what are the services it provides ?
Ambassador Levon : The Consulate General of Israel to the Southwest United States is responsible for the six-state region of Arkansas , Kansas , Louisiana , New Mexico , Oklahoma , and Texas . This is a vast area , bigger than the area of Great Britain , Germany , France , and Spain combined .
In addition to providing the regular consular services , the Consulate is responsible for serving this key region through its various departments , which include Political Diplomacy , Economy , Commerce and Energy , Academic and Educational Affairs , Cultural and Science Affairs , Media Relations , and Hispanic Affairs . Within the respective departments , there is also a focus on Christian Outreach . The Consulate keeps various and very active Facebook and
Twitter accounts in English and also in Spanish .
Katia : What are some past , present , and future goals for Israel ’ s relationship with Houston ?
Ambassador Levon : The Israeli Consulate in Houston opened in the 1960s . Since then , it has accompanied the city and its people , experiencing the recession of the 70s and the tremendous growth and economic boom throughout the last 30 years . Today , Houston is the fourth largest city in the USA , aspiring to soon be the third largest .
We wish to continue partaking in the prosperity of this city . Last year , we had two visits from Israel ’ s Minister of Infrastructure , Energy and WaiF Magazine | www . iFMagazine . net 43 41 15