Despite a tense political climate between Spain’s government and Israel, Spain’s business sector is moving in the opposite direction. A formal cooperation agreement has been signed between the Israel Export Institute and the Spanish business organization CONPYMES, which represents more than 2.1 million businesses and companies across Spain.
The agreement was signed by Nili Shalev, CEO of the Israel Export Institute, during a visit by a Spanish business delegation to Israel. Israeli officials described the deal as a clear vote of confidence in Israeli innovation, advanced technologies and the global standing of Israeli industry.
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José María Torres and Nili Shalev CEO of the Israel Export Institute signs the agreement
While political friction between Madrid and Jerusalem has sharpened in recent months, the Spanish business community is signaling a desire to expand cooperation with Israel. Delegation members said they want to strengthen commercial ties and connect Spanish companies with Israeli firms in fields where Israel is seen as a leading technological partner.
Bilateral trade between Israel and Spain already totals about $3 billion a year, including nearly $1 billion in Israeli exports. Israeli officials said the new framework is expected to broaden economic opportunities, encourage joint projects and deepen long-term partnerships.
Avi Blashnikov, chairman of the Israel Export Institute, said the agreement highlights the gap between political rhetoric and business reality.
“This agreement proves that Israeli innovation is stronger than politics. Even in times of political hostility, the Spanish business community values the capabilities of Israeli companies and actively wants to work with us. This is a clear victory for the Israeli economy and for the excellence of Israeli industry.”
The Israel Export Institute said it will continue working to widen Israel’s commercial presence in Spain and across Europe, while supporting Israeli companies seeking new markets in high tech, health, energy, fintech, agrotech and other sectors.