Georgia’s Strong Economic Relationship with Israel

Friends,

In addition to the strong cybersecurity presence in Israel that I discussed last week, on our trip we were able to see first hand some of the great relationships in the traditional business space that directly benefit those of you in the 159th House district and the entire state of Georgia. 

Israel has long been a strong ally of the United States in a region that has presented challenges to our security over the years.  That relationship extends to partnerships in the manufacturing space, creating and preserving jobs in communities like Savannah and Richmond Hill.  

For example, Caesarstone - a pioneering company in the natural quartz surfaces market, was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Sdot Yam, near Haifa, Israel. With a manufacturing facility in Richmond Hill, Caesarstone is able to take advantage of our port facilities and strong workforce to serve the North American market.   

For over 20 years now, Gulfstream, owned by General Dynamics and a stalwart Savannah manufacturer of jet aircraft, has partnered with Israeli Aerospace Industries to produce the Gulfstream 280 business jet. The 280 allows Gulfstream to produce a niche aircraft to be marketed worldwide. 

Looking statewide, software company JFrog offers its IT services to many American companies, providing enterprise solutions to maintain, protect, and upgrade software.  An office in Atlanta is integral to their ability to serve their North American clients. 

These examples are but a few of the amazing opportunities created through these international partnerships.  I believe Georgia’s workforce across our state is strongly positioned to contribute to the advancement of manufacturing, technology, cybersecurity, and the national defense of our allies today - and that ability will only increase. 

Whether through the technology community in Atlanta; the healthcare and cybersecurity community in Augusta; defense-sector partners in Columbus; freight, logistics, and manufacturing in and around the 159th District; or any of the other numerous business sectors around our state, I know Georgians will continue to make our state proud through their work with partners around the world.  

Always remember that should you have questions about my work as your Representative or as Speaker of the House, you can always reach out to me at 404.656.5020, Jon.Burns@house.ga.gov, or on Facebook at www.FB.com/JonBurnsGA.  If you wish to sign up for my weekly emailed newsletter, visit https://www.friendsofjonburns.com/home to sign up.