WASHINGTON - Israel signed a partnership agreement with the United Nations Development Program on Thursday to support developing countries, mainly in Africa.

The document was signed by Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gabriela Shalev and marks a groundbreaking milestone in UN-Israel cooperation towards the development of third world countries.

According to the agreement, Israel will aid the developing nations in knowledge and technological abilities in the fields of agriculture, water, food, health and education.

The countries Israel will be assisting include Senegal and Benin, where watering technologies developed by Israeli companies will be implemented to fight hunger. Israel will also be sending experts to African and other developing countries and hold training courses in Israel.

"Israel views sharing the expertise and knowledge we have accumulated with countries in need of the highest moral and diplomatic importance," said Shalev.

"This agreement marks further international recognition of Israel's contribution to the world. We will continue to present Israel's creativity and innovation on the international stage."

UNDP Administrator Kemal Dervis said, "Particularly at this time of global economic crisis, support for the Millennium Development Goals is more important than ever."

"We greatly appreciate Israel's new commitment to working with UNDP in support of development, especially in Africa. UNDP welcomes increased participation of many new donors among middle income counties.

"Israel has excellent technical expertise in sectors such as agriculture and is hereby committed to sharing this experience in a multilateral framework. The fight against poverty can help us overcome many challenges and divides," he said.

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