Origins of our Foundation

It all began with the resolution of the Palestinian National Authority in conjunction with Pope John Paul II to promote an international project to restore the Holy City of Bethlehem, on the occasion of the 2000 Jubilee. This triggered a new awareness and commitment of solidarity with Palestine, not only from a material point of view to help rebuild the fallen walls, but also especially to make international efforts to overcome the long story of sorrows and injustice suffered by these people.

Hence, a group of Chilean businessmen of Palestinian origin José Said, Mario Nazal, and Alberto Kassis traveled to Bethlehem, and on their return felt motivated to make this initiative a cause for the future: to show the world the identity of a profoundly learned relevant and hardworking people. One of the most important things to undertake was to develop the culture and education of their new generations. Based on that principle the Palestine Bethlehem 2000 Foundation -Chile was officially established on July 31st, 2001. The basis of this project is, as Jose Said explained, "to unite our efforts, talents and abilities in a collective and coordinated initiative to revitalize our Palestinian essence with its customs and distinguishing characteristics. And also, to accompany the Palestinian people, sustaining from this small corner of the world a bridge of solidarity with all of our brotherhood.”