Business network:A business network has been established between Ireland and Israel to create new opportunities and markets and promote trade.

The Ireland Israel Business Network will organise regular events focusing on shared interests between the countries in areas such as cloud computing, mobile communications, cleantech, renewables and medical technology. The organisation, which terms itself non-political and independent, will organise ad hoc events and round tables in Ireland and Israel to facilitate visiting professionals and encourage links. “The idea came about as I had been to Israel several times and come from a technology background, so noticed the similarities between the two countries in terms of innovation and research development,” co-founder Dr Clyde Hutchinson said.

Dr Hutchinson said the network would give entrepreneurs and professionals in both countries the opportunity to share knowledge and ideas, to look at ways to improve existing businesses and to start up new ones.