Romney proves again that he is not able to function in the International circles that a person who is trying for one of the most influential political offices in the world. In an AP article from Israel, Mitt Romney made the following statements during a fundraiser attended by Sheldon Adelson, New York Jets owner Woody Johnson and hedge fund manager Paul Singer among many others:
"As you come here and you see the GDP per capita, for instance, in Israel which is about $21,000 dollars, and compare that with the GDP per capita just across the areas managed by the Palestinian Authority, which is more like $10,000 per capita, you notice such a dramatically stark difference in economic vitality," the Republican presidential candidate told about 40 wealthy donors who breakfasted around a U-shaped table at the luxurious King David Hotel.
"And as I come here and I look out over this city and consider the accomplishments of the people of this nation, I recognize the power of at least culture and a few other things," Romney said, citing an innovative business climate, the Jewish history of thriving in difficult circumstances and the "hand of providence."
Romney conveniently left out the fact that the Palestinian economy is hampered in large part due to the severe economic impact of the occupation of the West Bank, limited self-rule, control of all border crossings leading to restricted Palestinian trade and movement.
As noted by both the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund
... the Palestinian economy can only grow if Israel lifts those restrictions.