Sprinklers water the plantation fields near the southern Israeli city of Sderot, on Jan. 21, 2017. Photo: Nati Shohat/Flash90.

JNS.org – A bipartisan bill was introduced on Monday by Reps. Lois Frankel (D-Fla.) and Randy Weber (R-Texas) to further cooperative development between the United States and Israel in the agriculture, water resources and energy-storage sectors.

“For decades, America and Israel have provided international aid based on our shared values and cultures of innovation,” said Frankel. “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,” said Weber. “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.”

The United States-Israel International Development Cooperation Act would establish an annual $2 million cooperative program between 2020 and 2024 to enhance partnerships in areas of energy storage, water resources and agriculture.