Constructive Foundations: Diplomatic Symposium at the Belgian Ambassador's Residence
A pivotal diplomatic gathering at the Belgian Ambassador’s residence, focusing on the practical foundations of economic cooperation and institutional capacity as a critical pathway toward regional stability and peace.
On 7 July the Residence of the Ambassador of Belgium in Herzliya Pituach hosted a significant symposium titled "Israeli Voices on a Credible Pathway to a Two-State Framework." The event, hosted by H.E. Ambassador Stefaan Thijs in cooperation with the Delegation of the European Union to the State of Israel, brought together a distinguished audience including ambassadors from Jerusalem and Ramallah, senior diplomats, and policy experts.
The atmosphere was one of professional rigor, focused on moving beyond theoretical debates toward practical implementation. The event served as a platform for Israeli experts to discuss how economic and institutional development can create a more stable "political horizon" for both Israelis and Palestinians.
A Vision for Stability through Cooperation
In his opening remarks, H.E. Ambassador Stefaan Thijs emphasized that while the current moment is filled with "anger, pain, and trauma," the international community must focus on what can be done practically to prepare for a day when politics becomes possible again. Drawing on the European experience, he noted that political structures are “built through institutions, economic interests, legal arrangements, practical cooperation, and above all, the gradual creation of trust."
"Europe’s own history teaches us that political structures are not built only through declarations," Ambassador Thijs remarked, noting that the European project began by intertwining the very sectors - coal and steel - once used for war. He suggested that while the local context is unique, close economic cooperation can inspire trust-building and political progress.
The Ambassador also highlighted the importance of strengthening Palestinian economic capacity and institutions as a foundation for eventual independence and statehood. He noted that halting damaging economic practices - such as the withholding of tax revenues - is essential for any government seeking renewed international credibility.
Framing the Discussion
The symposium was moderated by Tal Schneider, Political and Diplomatic Correspondent at The Times of Israel. In her framing of the discussion, Schneider noted that the meeting occurred at a time when there is hope for the Middle East to enter a more calm transition period after years of war and enormous uncertainty.
She clarified the symposium's specific intent: "We’re not going to solve all of the problems, of course, but we want to talk about building blocks that could make future political progress more realistic." The focus remained strictly on how cooperation in economics, governance, and policy could foster a more stable region for all people in the area.
Distinguished Experts and Diplomatic Presence
The event featured a series of specialized perspectives from leading Israeli voices:
- Prof. Zvi Eckstein (Head of the Aaron Economic Policy Institute at Reichman University; former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Israel):
Discussed the economic and institutional foundations required for future progress. - May Pundak (Co-Director of A Land for All):
Focused on shared interests and shared systems. - Col. (Ret.) Dr. Shaul Arieli: (Researcher, lecturer and author on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; one of the initiators of the Geneva Initiative):
Provided analysis on territorial realities and future political frameworks.
- Nadav Tamir (Senior Advisor at The Peres Center for Peace and Innovation; Executive Director of J Street Israel):
Addressed the transition from ideas to implementable policy.
- H.E. Ambassador Michael Mann (Ambassador of the European Union to the State of Israel):
Highlighted Europe's role as a practical partner.
Following the intellectual program, the atmosphere transitioned into a sophisticated and welcoming social hour in the residence garden. The reception was attended by a large number of ambassadors and diplomats, who continued the dialogue in a more informal setting.
The staff of www.diplomacy.co.il thanks H.E. Ambassador Stefaan Thijs and the Embassy of Belgium for their hospitality and for hosting such an essential and pragmatic discussion.
Photos: Silvia G. Golan
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