"We will continue to invest in Israel. We have nothing concrete at the moment, and we're focusing on strengthening our investment in Mobli Ltd., but we will definitely continue to invest. As far as we're concerned, everything is open," Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, the world's second wealthiest man, told "Globes" in an interview.
"We have not targeted any specific company, but every field is possible. We're especially interested in the healthcare industry and telecommunications, but I do not rule out finances or retail. We're very open to anything that moves innovation forward."
At a press conference with Israeli journalists, Slim said, "Mobli was not the first company that interested us. We were in talks with another Israeli company, but it was acquired by an American company from Silicon Valley." He declined to disclose the name of the company.
At the press conference during President Shimon Peres's state visit, and at the interview with "Globes", Slim, who is of Lebanese extraction, declined to respond to questions if he would visit Israel. However, at a working meeting with Peres, he said, "I am excited by the invitation and I would be pleased to visit Israel."
Carlos Slim Jr. told "Globes", "Mexico could be a very interesting target for investment by Israeli companies. There are also possibilities for Israeli companies to link up with Mexican companies and joint develop activity.
Carlos Slim Jr. (46), the heir-apparent to the Slim empire, invited an Israeli delegation to the family-owned museum, where, for over two hours, he laid before 86 Israeli CEOs data and activities of the empire's companies. Carlos Slim Jr., who serves as chairman of Grupo Carso, reiterated his father's message about making more investments in Israel. "I've discovered a sound and solid business community, which is very relevant for technological development, but also traditional industries," he said.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 28, 2013
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