Steve Ballmer In Israel

Today, Microsoft's Chief Executive, Steve Ballmer visited Israel. Mr. Ballmer came to Israel for the inauguration ceremony of Microsoft's new research and development center in Herzliya, Israel. I invited by Microsoft and also took place at the press conference.

From the press conference: Left: Danny Yamin -  Microsoft Israel subsidiary CEO; Center-Mr.Ballmer; Right:  Moshe Lichtman - Israel R&D center corporate VP.

What I have learned from this event?

First, the proportion of Microsoft employees per capita in Israel is almost similar to that in the United States? WOW!! Impressive!!!

Another thing - Tel Aviv is a lot like the Silicon Valley...he knows very few places around the world that offer such a variety of startup opportunities, and that his company intends to purchase more Israeli startup companies. Israeli startups - be ready!!!

Moshe Lichtman - Israel R&D center corporate VP

Localized (in Hebrew) XBOX?? Ballmer apologized that there is no localized XBox, and wrote a note to take care about it...

And...what about Yahoo!?   So, Ballmer said that Microsoft is not looking to buy all of Yahoo! but is currently engaging in negotiations about other types of deals with them.

Facebook?? yes! Ballmer said that Microsoft have a great relationship with Facebook and they look to continue to invest in that partnership.

After the press conference we went to the inauguration ceremony which included speech of Mr. Shimon Peres, the President of Israel, Mrs. Yael German, mayor of Herzliya and a talk by Ballmer about innovation.

Mr. Shimon Peres, President of Israel

Peres's speech was impressive. He compared Israel's situation to Microsoft's product. He said: "If I have to say it in your language, go from a country in need of walls, to a country that can open windows...".

Ballmer's talk about innovation.

Also was here, Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Gilerman.

Thanks to Microsoft and Michal. I really enjoyed this event!!