An Israeli businessman is to be honoured by the Queen for building technology partnership between the UK and Israel.

Buckingham Palace announced that Haim Shani, chairman of the UK Israel Tech Hub, is to receive the Order of the British Empire, on Thursday.

During his six years at the UK Israel Tech Hub, Mr Shani has delivered 175 partnerships between UK and Israeli companies.

The partnerships with companies such as BT, RBS, Aviva, and Tesco have had direct impact on the UK economy.

He has helped to make the UK Israel’s number one tech destination in Europe and number three in the world.

On news that he is to receive the award, Mr Shani said: “In a short time the UK Israel Tech Hub has created fruitful collaborations which carry great value both for the UK economy and Israeli innovation.

"The fact that the Palace chose to award me with this honour demonstrates how important this initiative is for the UK, and I am grateful for that.”

David Quarrey, British Ambassador to Israel, said: “Through his belief in the potential of collaboration between the UK and Israel, Haim has helped transform the tech partnership between the two countries.

“We have benefited hugely from Haim’s experience and wisdom. I am grateful to Haim for his role in making the UK Israel Tech Hub a success and for pioneering this new form of economic diplomacy.”