Israel Approves $90 Million Plan For Socio-Economic Development of East Jerusalem
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Israel’s Cabinet approved a $90 million plan for the socio-economic development of eastern Jerusalem.
The plan , approved Sunday, will focus on increased security and police in eastern Jerusalem.
“One of the main goals of the plan that was approved is to bring about a significant decline in violence by means of integrated activity to reduce gaps in infrastructure, employment, education and social welfare and by boosting enforcement and personal security,” according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
It is the first time that a comprehensive socio-economic development plan will be formulated and implemented for eastern Jerusalem, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The plan presupposes a deep link between the scope and level of violence by the mostly Palestinian-Arab residents of eastern Jerusalem and the standard of living in neighborhoods there.
The plan is a result of comprehensive discussions over the last several months, including with Jerusalem Mayor Barkat and representatives of the relevant government ministries on effective ways to deal with the dangerous situation in eastern Jerusalem.
It emphasizes the advancement of children and young people ages 10 to 35, the age group most easily influenced to take part in nationalist activities.
In recent years there has been an upsurge in acts of violence and stone-throwing in the eastern part of the city, as well as other activities with “nationalist characteristics.”
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