Massachusetts gov. planning first overseas trade mission to Israel
The governor of the State of Massachusetts will be visiting Israel for six days with the hope of bringing cyber security and digital health services to Massachusetts; his visit comes at the heels of a successful visit by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.
Administration officials say the focus of the six-day trip will be to pitch Massachusetts as a potential business hub to Israeli cybersecurity and digital health firms looking to expand into the US.
Officials say the trip also reflects the longstanding economic and cultural ties between Israel and Massachusetts.
The Republican governor is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Dec. 9 and depart on Dec. 14.
The entourage will consist of 12 administration officials, including Baker, and 40 private sector representatives. Administration officials say tax dollars will only be used to cover the cost of Baker's state police security detail.
The administration is partnering with the New England-Israel Business Council with the support of Combined Jewish Philanthropies.
Governor Baker's visit comes at the heels of a recent trade mission by Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, which also sought to further business opportunities with Israel in the areas of high-tech businesses such as life sciences and cyber security.
