BOP Chairman and General Manager Hashim Shawa met with the Chilean President Michelle Bashelet and discussed a number of economic issues and means of joint cooperation. At the outset of the meeting, Shawa has warmly welcomed Her Excellency the Chilean President, who for her part pointed to the deeply-rooted historical Palestinian-Chilean relations and highlighted the Chilean support and solidarity with the Palestinian people. Shawa has also extended gratitude to the Republic of Chile, its government and people stressing at the same time the brotherly relations that unite the two peoples in spite of geographical distance between the two countries.
In addition, Shawa gave a detailed presentation on BOP activities and services it provides to customers, and referred to the Bank’s role in empowering Palestinian women in leadership and providing them with opportunities for development and active contribution to society.
Shawa shared with the Chilean President BOP efforts to communicate with the Palestinian community in Chile which is considered the largest Palestinian community in the diaspora. He added BOP encourages Palestinian living in Chile to cooperate and contribute to the development of Palestinian economy. Shawa said BOP has been sponsoring Palestino Football Club for the third year in a row which a first division football club in Chile.
Concerning the opening of a BOP Rep Office in Chile, President Bachelet has instructed competent authorities to speed up procedures related to the opening of the office and facilitate its operations. The opening of a BOP Rep Office in Chile will enhance the relations between the two countries.
Moreover, the Chilean President and Shawa exchanged thoughts about means to benefit from Chilean expertise in order to develop the Palestinian economy, including the private sector retirement system. Shawa made clear the retirement system being currently developed in Palestine has been inspired by the distinguished and successful Chilean model.
Because Chile is a coastal republic, Shawa has also discussed with the Chilean President the contribution the Republic of Chile can provide to the development of the fishing sector in the Gaza Strip that has suffered much as a result of the measures and practices of the Israeli military authorities. He added BOP has spared no effort supporting the fishing sector with the view of strengthening the steadfastness of fishermen, repairing their boats and purchasing fishing supplies. Shawa stressed the commitment of BOP to corporate social responsibility which is sponsored by business men and women from Chile.
At the end of the meeting, Shawa expressed appreciation and gratitude to Her Excellency President of Chile for her hospitality. He also lauded her efforts in assisting the Palestinian people and opening new development horizons for Palestinian institutions.