The Israeli flag was openly waved for the first time Wednesday in the Persian Gulf emirate of Abu Dhabi. Two official delegates of the Israeli government sat under the flag during an administrative committee meeting of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) meant to explore energy alternatives for the "post-oil" era.
The committee meeting opened last Monday in The United Arab Emirates capital of Abu Dhabi. According to Israel 'sMinistry of Foreign Affairs, this is the agency's first meeting held in Abu Dhabi after it was elected by 130 delegates to act as host for the organization's headquarters.
Some 150 representatives from 70 countries participated in the meeting, including Israeli representatives Simona Halperin from the Foreign Ministry and Dr. Avraham Arbiv from the Ministry of National Infrastructures. The two were invited to take part in the gathering although Israel does not maintain diplomatic relations with the UAE.
UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash stressed during his opening speech his country's commitment to fulfilling IRENA's goals and the importance of collaboration with all member countries.
He further added that the gathering symbolizes the world's determination to prepare for the post-oil era and the UAE's willingness to lead the effort to diversify energy sources.
The city of Masdar, designed to be the first green city in the world, which will be built near Abu Dhabi was chosen to be IRENA's official residence.