Delegation from the United States Agency for International Development, USAID
D. Elias Rishmawi; a Municipal Council member welcomed the guests on behalf of the Mayor and City Council members and he emphasized the importance of the public park in terms of being the first of its kind in Bethlehem and the symbolic meaning of cooperation between the Americans, the Israelis and the Palestinians for a peaceful coexistence since the park is being created on what was an Israeli military camp, he also stressed the mutual respect and cooperation as the bases for all parties involved in realizing this project. He also thanked the USAID representatives of their support of the first phase of the project and stressed that the support also reflects the interest and respect of USAID to the needs of the Palestinian people. Mr. David Harden congratulated Beit Sahour for the establishment of this beautiful Public Park, and stated that he has hope in the future and working together to create opportunities for lasting peace as this is the hope of the American people. The Americans wants peace in Palestine and throughout the Middle East.
Mr. Bever said “Although I came to Beit Sahour before but this is my first visit to this site, I am very impressed and pleased of what I see. He added “I don’t want you to think that we give aid to the Palestinians but instead we invest our money in projects that will bring long lasting effects.” The delegation toured the site accompanied by the municipal council, project managers where explanation was given to the delegation about the project’s concept, the overall plan and the second phase of the Public Park. The delegation expressed their admiration of the project and the determination of the municipality to convert a site that used to represent occupation to an outlet for the regions families and their children. |
Mr. James Bever, the Senior Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Middle East Bureau, USAID, accompanied by David Harden Deputy Mission Director of the USAID in the West Bank and Gaza and their accompanied officers from the USA and the regional office visited the new Public Park at the site of Osh Grab- Beit Sahour. They were welcomed by the municipal council members together with representatives of the civil society groups and community prominent figures. 
Eng. Hussam Salsaa, a Municipal Council member, welcomed the guests and thanked them for their funding of the first phase of the park, and called for the continuation of their support to the municipality in realizing this very important project. Eng. Hussam also explained the project concept and future activities and pointing to the contribution of the community; individuals and institutions in cash, voluntary work and building materials.