Showcasing Collaborative Innovation at VivaTech 2026
At the forefront of technological advancement and diplomatic engagement, the 'Abraham in Tech' initiative made a significant impact during the VivaTech 2026 conference held in Paris. This unique pavilion brought together a total of 30 innovative companies representing Israel, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates, thereby underscoring the potential for collaboration in the post-Abraham Accords era. With 15 startups from Israel, 11 firms from Morocco, and four from the UAE, the pavilion highlighted a diverse range of sectors including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, healthcare, energy, and green technology.
This initiative was spearheaded by ELNET France, the French branch of the European Leadership Network. Arié Bensemhoun, who led the project, articulated a vision centered on using innovation as a catalyst for regional cooperation and dialogue. "We aimed to create a significant diplomatic event focused on innovation," said Bensemhoun, emphasizing that 'Abraham in Tech' facilitates meetings, idea exchanges, and partnerships among companies from these three nations.
Fostering Economic Ties and Regional Cooperation
Among the featured Israeli companies was Neologic, whose CEO, Avi Messica, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities presented at the event to connect with potential investors and strategic partners. The pavilion served not only as a platform for showcasing technological prowess but also as a means to strengthen economic ties and foster long-term collaboration among countries that have formalized relations through the Abraham Accords. Organizers highlighted that beyond commercial prospects, such joint ventures could encourage sustainable cooperation among the peoples of the region.
This sentiment was echoed by Maurice Lévy, co-founder of VivaTech, who emphasized the vital role startups and entrepreneurs play in establishing enduring relationships between nations and enhancing regional connectivity. Despite prevalent geopolitical tensions, many Israeli entrepreneurs reported a warm reception during the event. Sharon Erez-Shai, who founded her company amidst the challenges of conflict, described the atmosphere within the pavilion as welcoming and collaborative. Similarly, Messica noted a lack of hostility towards his Israeli identity and observed a strong interest in cooperation from fellow attendees.
The presence of the Israeli delegation also aimed to showcase the robustness of Israel's startup ecosystem. Michal Michaeli, director of international economic development for the Tel Aviv Municipality, noted that Tel Aviv continues to be recognized globally as a leading innovation hub, attracting entrepreneurs and investors alike. The collaborative spirit of the 'Abraham in Tech' pavilion thus serves as a testament to the economic potential unlocked by the Abraham Accords, illustrating how technology can bridge divides and foster dialogue, cooperation, and shared growth, even in the face of ongoing regional challenges.
As reported by i24news.tv.
