For the first time ever, a foreign exchange student from the United Arab Emirates will begin his studies at an Israeli university.
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The student, Mansoor bin Shamekh al-Marzooqi, 19, has enrolled at the IDC Herzliya and will study for a bachelor's degree in Government while living at the student dormitories.
"I chose to come to study in Israel out of a strong desire to contribute to the advancement of peace," Marzooqi said in a statement.
"The steps taken by the leaders of our two countries have given me the opportunity to come here and show our value, that of young people, in promoting cooperation for peace and prosperity," he said. "I heard from an Israeli friend of mine who attended the international school about IDC and the atmosphere here, and I feel very safe studying here. I am currently focusing on pursuing my bachelor's degree, and hope that in the future I can continue to my master's degree."
Marzooqi was welcomed to the school by IDC President and Founder Prof. Uriel Reichman and UAE Ambassador to Israel Mohamed Al Khaja.
"I'm very proud that the IDC is the first academic institution in Israel to enroll a student from the Emirates," said Reichman.
Al Khaja said: "Today marks yet another important milestone in our quest towards achieving our shared vision of engagement. I believe that education and culture are a bridge to a better future. Working together for the progress and success of research collaboration and student exchanges will bring our peoples closer."
Last September, the UAE and fellow Gulf state Bahrain became the first Arab states in a quarter of a century to sign agreements to establish formal ties with Israel. Israel and the UAE have already established direct flights and exchanged numerous trade delegations, while thousands of Israeli tourists have visited the gulf state.
Israel opened an embassy in Abu Dhabi in January.
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