DrEyal Propper, consul general of Israel in Shanghai, speaks atChina-Israel Automotive and Smart Transportation Business Seminar's Shanghai stop.

Twelve Israeli car industry companies displayed their latest technologies and offerings — from self-driving cars to information security, sensors to intelligent connected vehicles — at the third China-Israel Automotive and Smart Transportation Business Seminar.

The annual event aims to promote bilateral cooperation and trade inthe automobile car industry, which participants said highlights the deepening ties between the two countries.

The event was held at the China-Israel Innovation Hub (Shanghai) in Putuo District andco-organized by the Consulate General of Israel in Shanghai's Economics and Trade Mission to East China, the Israeli Ministry of Economy and Industry's Foreign Trade Administration and the Israel Export Institute.

"This is the third meeting of B2B companies of east China and Israel. And the automobile sector is becoming very important to developingcooperation between Chinese and Israeli companies," said Consul GeneralEyal Propper.

Gu Jun, deputy head of Putuo District, said the car industry was very important in China and demand for new technologies is high among local makers, adding Israel is a leader in advanced car technology and intelligent transport solutions.

David Oberman ofInnoviz Technologies, one of the 12 companies, told Shanghai Daily: "It's like a miracle to see how the relationship between China and Israel has become so strong.

"We understand we're so small but we hope we can give the technology to China because China is so big and we need it for so many different purposes."

In October last year, Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan wrapped up a fruitful visit to Israel with a commitment from both sides to further boost bilateral innovation cooperation, at the fourth meeting of the China-Israel Joint Committee on Innovation Cooperation.

Gu said the China-Israel Innovation Hub will open to the public next month and serve as a important platform for bilateral innovation cooperation and providing services for Israeli companies seeking entry into the Chinese market.