September 24, 2012 – New York – AJC has begun an intensive series of private meetings with leaders of countries around the world who have come to New York City for the opening of the UN General Assembly. 

It is the 22nd year of AJC’s “diplomatic marathon,” a ten-day period that is a pioneering hallmark of the global advocacy organization's year-round worldwide diplomacy.

Topping this year’s agenda are: the deepening threat of Iran achieving nuclear-weapons capability; the renewed Palestinian gambit for UN recognition of a state without negotiating with Israel, this time by seeking upgraded status for the Palestinian delegation; and efforts to encourage the European Union to add Hezbollah to its list of terror organizations. More than 70 private meetings with presidents, prime ministers and foreign ministers have been scheduled.

“Whether we meet with these world leaders in New York or in their own capitals, as we do throughout the year, our investment in diplomacy yields valuable insights and productive outcomes,” said AJC Executive Director David Harris, who initiated the diplomatic marathon in the fall of 1990. “We have a great team of lay leaders and experienced professionals eager for the opportunity, at this immensely challenging time in Middle East and global affairs, to engage in high-level diplomacy."