Palestine Investment Fund Clinches Top Awards at Arab Social Responsibility Event

Ramallah: The Palestine Development Foundation, the social investment arm of the Palestine Investment Fund, secured first and second places at the Arab Award for Social Responsibility and Sustainability. The awards were presented during the 17th Arab Forum for Social Responsibility and Sustainability held in Dubai under the theme "Sustainable Prosperity: Redrawing the Roadmap for a Balanced Future." According to Maan News Agency, the Foundation achieved first place in the Partnerships and Cooperation category through its Jerusalem Green Energy and Sustainability Grants Program, which receives joint funding from the Fund and the European Union. The program focuses on supporting projects in Jerusalem that integrate commercial viability with environmental sustainability. It won second place in the social institutions category, reflecting its broad impact through various programs aimed at social responsibility. The awards ceremony highlighted the Foundation's initiatives, including providing substantial support to small and medium enterprises in Jerusalem. These initiatives, funded with a total of 1.5 million euros, encompass a wide array of environmentally focused projects, such as the installation of solar panels, the purchase of eco-friendly equipment, and innovative recycling projects. One notable project includes the implementation of tourist tours in the Old City of Jerusalem using electric bicycles. James Rizzo, Deputy EU Representative, praised the strength of the EU's partnership with the Palestine Investment Fund, emphasizing the EU's commitment to supporting sustainable economic resilience in East Jerusalem. The Arab Award for Social Responsibility and Sustainability, now in its 17th year, saw participation from 122 entries across 16 categories from 10 Arab countries. This platform continues to encourage and inspire institutions across the MENA region to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to a balanced and sustainable future. Iyad Joudeh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Investment Fun d, expressed pride in the awards, noting that they reflect the Fund's dedication to impactful programs despite significant challenges. He highlighted the awards as a testament to the Fund's role in promoting economic, social, and environmental progress in the region. The event also featured comments from Habiba Al Marashi, Founder and CEO of the Arab Network for Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability. She commended the Palestine Development Foundation for its exceptional participation and the significant impact of its programs, which have effectively supported various social, environmental, and economic sectors in Palestine.