The Portland Trust is a British non-profit ‘action tank’ whose mission is to promote peace and stability between Israelis and Palestinians through economic development. We work with a range of partners to help develop the Palestinian private sector and relieve poverty through entrepreneurship in Israel.

They have been, and continue to be, involved in a number of important initiatives, including the development of financial and economic infrastructure, trade and investment and entrepreneurship.

Since its launch in 2003, the Trust has consistently highlighted the important role of economics in resolving the Middle East conflict. It is a critical element alongside improved security and political process to achieve a sustainable and long lasting peace.

The Trust’s approach is supported by evidence from other conflict situations – Northern Ireland, Bosnia Herzegovina and more broadly through research carried out jointly with the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London. In Northern Ireland economic discussions became a platform for political settlement. The private sector pushed for moderation, and during difficult periods of the conflict, public sector financial support and employment underpinned the economy.

The Portland Trust was founded in London in 2003 by Sir Ronald Cohen, co-founder and former Chairman of the private equity firm Apax Partners, together with Sir Harry Solomon, co-founder and former chairman and CEO of Hillsdown Holdings.

The other Trustees include Nicola Cobbold, former CEO of The Portland Trust until September 2015 and Sir Mick Davis, CEO of X2 Resources.

In June 2005, The Portland Trust opened an office in Tel Aviv headed by Eival Gilady until the end of 2011. In October 2012 Yossi Bachar joined as Chairman and in April 2018, Rami Schwartz joined as the Managing Director of The Portland Trust in Tel Aviv.

In April 2006, an office was opened in Ramallah under the direction of Samir Hulileh. Yahya Shunnar joined as Managing Director of The Portland Trust in February 2018.

Douglas Krikler was appointed CEO of The Portland Trust in October 2018.

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