2013 Briefing Book - Print Version - Aipac

RELATIONSHIP
The United States strongly backed Israel’s entry into the OECD, the world’s most exclusive economic body.
U.S. Backing Key to Israel’s Acceptance into OECD
U.S. support was instrumental to Israel’s 2010 entry into the Organisation for Economic Cooperation
and Development (OECD), the world’s most exclusive economic body. Israel’s
acceptance was the culmination of a 10-year effort by American administrations, with the strong
support of Congress.
In the years preceding membership, Israel brought its economy in line with OECD standards,
making significant structural reforms to curb debt and reduce the government’s role in the economy.
Dedicating a larger percentage of gross domestic product to research and development than any
nation in the world, Israel makes extraordinary contributions to the arts and sciences. Israeli citizens
have won ten Nobel prizes in subjects ranging from chemistry and economics to literature and peace.
Israel also boasts a strong, representative democracy—a key criteria for OECD membership—
with freedom of religion, freedom of the press, an independent judiciary and full rights for
women and minorities.
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