Governor Abbott Meets Israel's Netanyahu
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AUSTIN, Texas (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — Gov. Greg Abbott has told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Texas will maintain its Iran divestiture policy.
A statement from Abbott's office says the governor, who's traveling overseas, met with the Israeli leader on Monday.
Abbott also announced that he'll seek new laws, during the 2017 Legislature, to strengthen prohibitions in Texas on the investment of public funds in Iran.
Abbott's meeting came after last weekend's historic nuclear deal involving the U.S. and five other world powers that freed Iran from international sanctions. Iran was deemed to have dismantled most of its nuclear program under a deal established last summer.
The Texas governor also plans to attend the World Economic Forum in Switzerland.
Governor Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott visited several historical sites while on their trip to Israel.
The Governor and the First Lady visited the Israeli Holocaust Museum, Yad Vashem, and laid a wreath in honor of the victims of the Holocaust. Yad Vashem was established in 1953, and is the world center for documentation, research, education and commemoration of the Holocaust. Following their visit to Yad Vashem, the Governor and First Lady visited King David's tomb and the Western Wall, which is the last remnant of Second Temple of Jerusalem that has remained intact since its destruction in 70 AD.
"After spending only a day in Israel, it is evident why the Jewish state is so strong," said Governor Abbott. "Despite facing enormous challenges from the outset, the Jewish people have created a blossoming democracy that allows its people to live, work and worship as they choose. Like Texans, Israelis have vigorously defended their freedom and in them, I recognize a people with a similar spirit, who aspire and strive for a better tomorrow for our children and grandchildren."
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