Despite the close proximity of many Jewish and Arab municipalities in areas like the northern "Triangle" (Wadi Ara), the Galilee and the Negev, there is little cooperation between these entities on the local and regional level.

Sikkuy believes that cooperation between the Arab and Jewish municipalities for economic development, joint infrastructure expansion, tourism, shared land use etc. will benefit both Arab and Jewish citizens and create a positive dynamic for advancing civic equality and shared citizenship.

Since there was no framework for implementing this kind of cooperation, Sikkuy established the first Jewish-Arab Mayors Forum (JAMFI) in the Northern Triangle - Wadi Ara region in 2004. With Sikkuy's assistance, Jewish and Arab mayors in this region and their professional staffs are now meeting regularly to determine and develop a shared agenda for mutually beneficial local and regional development.

Joint committees have been formed to work together on: economic development - a shared industrial zone; tourism; environmental protection. These committees are being assisted by professional consultants provided by Sikkuy. Additional committees will be initiated as new opportunities and needs arise.

Sikkuy plans to continue the first JAMFI in 2005 and initiate a second forum in another region in 2005 (at the request of the local Arab and Jewish municipalities).

Municipal Cooperation Map: Wadi-Ara - Megido - Menashe