By Laura Kelly, Jewish Insider

Reps. Lois Frankel (D-FL) and Randy Weber (R-TX) introduced legislation on Monday that would strengthen the relationship between the United States and Israel on environmental projects in developing countries.

The bill calls for $2 million to be provided each year, for four years, to support collaboration between the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and its counterpart in Israel called MASHAV, on projects related to water resources, agriculture and energy storage. 

“For decades, America and Israel have provided international aid based on our shared values and cultures of innovation,” Rep. Frankel said in a statement. “This legislation would expand the reach of our important partnership and improve lives around the world.”

“The shared desire of the United States and Israel to see others thrive is foundational to our partnership,” Rep. Weber said. “Developmental aid ultimately seeks to provide self-sustainability to countries as they develop into future global marketplace competitors. This legislation maximizes on our continued partnership as we seek to expand the reach and effectiveness of our aid.”