Prime Minister Ariel Sharon met today with the mayors of Tel Aviv, Netanya, Ashdod, Beit Shemesh and Rahat.  These mayors represent the “Forum of 15”, the forum of the 15 largest cities in Israel.

The goal of the meeting was to hear the mayors’ views on the national master plan.  The mayors expressed their support for the plan and emphasized the need to submit it for Cabinet approval forthwith.  Today’s discussion was held in continuation of the Prime Minister’s talks on the matter with representatives of all relevant ministries.

The detailed discussion centered on the various parts of the plan.  Prime Minister Sharon will hold an additional discussion on the matter soon with regional council heads in order to hear their views.

The plan is an integrated plan that deals with development for residential and national infrastructure construction and the development of industrial zones, ports, etc.  It also defines land designated for nature reserves, national parks, forests, beaches, etc.  The last national master plan was approved by the Government in 1993 and has run its course.  Thus, there is an urgent need for a newer, updated plan.