U.N. awards contracts to Israeli companies for mortar defense systems, services for African peace forces.

The U.N. signed a contract with MER to provide mortar defense systems to African peace forces. Teva and Paz also among chosen companies, The Jerusalem Post reports.

African soldiers of a UN peacekeeping force (Picture source: UN)

The United Nations is investing in Israeli innovative products and services more than ever before, a press release on behalf of the Israeli mission to the UN said on Friday, 19 July. In 2018, Israeli companies were chosen by the UN for contracts worth $66 million, more than the $51m. in 2017 and $48m. in 2016. The steady increase is due not only to the efforts of the Israeli mission to the UN, but also to the high quality of Israeli innovation: "For the organization, to choose Israeli innovation to advance its global activities is a demonstrable vote of confidence in our capabilities and an economic lever for the local industry,” said Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations Danny Danon.

Among the Israeli firms doing business with the UN are Teva, Paz, Mer and Odis, as well as the Israeli Defense Ministry. Mer provides mortars for African peace forces, and Teva offers medical assistance to the United Nations Development Program. Paz recently signed an $18 million annual contract with the UN Office for Project Services, the Defense Ministry provides technology to defend UN bases in Africa, The Jerusalem Post concludes.