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Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of the European Union, Mr. Michael Anthony Mann
_President Isaac Herzog receives new Ambassadors from Estonia, Latvia, the European Union, South Sudan, Zambia, and New Zealand_
President Isaac Herzog today, Tuesday, received the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassadors to Israel from Estonia, Latvia, the European Union, South Sudan, Zambia, and New Zealand, in a series of formal ceremonies at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
Welcoming Ambassador of the European Union, Mr. Michael Anthony Mann, President Herzog stressed the importance of deepening relations between Israel and the European Union, while warning against steps that could cause lasting damage.
President Herzog said:
“Ambassador, you are arriving at a turbulent time. We are extremely concerned about the onslaught of initiatives and statements, including those by senior European leaders such as President von der Leyen, which we believe misinterpret what Israel is doing, defending Europe. I hope Europe will be smart enough not to take steps that could be irreparable.”
The President notes, “I am a strong supporter and believe in the relations between Israel and Europe. Some in Israel see Europe as a lost cause, but I do not agree. I trust in your wisdom and your capabilities to help us overcome the current clashes and to move forward.”
He stressed, “Of course, everything depends on the situation on the ground: on our efforts to bring the hostages home, and on ending this war. We are eager to see it end, but it must end in a way that secures the return of our hostages and changes the reality on the ground so that Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace, with Israel integrated fully into the region.”
On the issue of humanitarian aid in Gaza, the President said, “In my recent meetings in Britain, I emphasized that there is meticulous data from COGAT regarding humanitarian flows into Gaza. Too often, this data is ignored in favor of misleading or fabricated reports. We are open to any fact-finding mission, and I have already raised this with President von der Leyen. I repeat the invitation now: come, sit down with COGAT, examine the figures—on calories, food shipments, UN distribution routes, and more. We are adamant that there is no famine in Gaza. I urge Europe to look at the facts in a serious way, and not rely only on reports that misrepresent the reality.”
The President reiterated in each of his meetings today the supreme importance of securing the release of the hostages held in Gaza, emphasizing that their immediate and unconditional return is the key to ending the war and building a path towards peace.
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of Estonia, Mr. Andres Vosman
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of Latvia, Mr. Gints Serafinovics
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of South Sudan, Mr. Mou Mou Ring
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of Zambia, Mr. Wesley Mahuba Hazemba
Photo :President Herzog then welcomed new Ambassador of New Zealand, Mr. Greg Lewis.
Over the course of the ceremonies, President Herzog received the credentials of Ambassador of Estonia, Mr. Andres Vosman, and Ambassador of Latvia, Mr. Gints Serafinovics, Ambassador of South Sudan, Mr. Mou Mou Ring, Ambassador of Zambia, Mr. Wesley Mahuba Hazemba, and Ambassador of New Zealand, Mr. Greg Lewis.
Photos Kobi Gideon / GPO
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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On Thursday, 11 September 2025 on the occasion of the 204th anniversary of the independence of the four Central American Republics,
H.E. Mr. Antonio Lopez Escarre, Ambassador of Costa Rica,
H.E. Mr. Hector Enrique Celarie, Ambassador of El Salvador,
H.E. Ms. Ava Atzum Arevalo de Moscoso, Ambassador of Guatemala and
H.E. Ms. Tesla Flores Abadie, Chargé d' Affaires of Honduras, hosted a reception at the Benjamin Hotel in Herzliya Pituach.
The hall was decorated with the flags of the four Central American Republics and with flowers which added to the festive atmosphere.
The national anthems of all four Central American countries followed by the singing of Israel's Hatikva. Simultaneously while the anthems were played, there was a screen that displayed breathtaking photography of the various countries. The words of Hatikvah served as a catalyst for guests to participate by singing enthusiastically.
The Master of Ceremonies, journalist Nicole Michel enthusiastically welcomed all dignitaries and guests and stated that on the 15th of September 1821 the four countries that formed the Captaincy General of Guatemala, declared independence from Spanish rule. Instructions regarding the evacuation of the premises in case of a missle attack were given by the event organizer and Corporate Sales Manager of the Benjamin Hotel, Ms. Georgina Litvak.
H.E. Ms. Eva Atzum de Moscoso, Ambassador of Guatemala spoke on behalf of all the Central American Ambassadors, starting her speech by saying that it is an immense honour for her to make the address on behalf of her colleagues. Tonight's celebration is a reflection of that unity and friendship among brotherly peoples that knows no borders and never forgets its roots as Israel is not only a partner, but a cherished friend with whom we move forward firmly towards a future of greater prosperity and closeness.
Guatemala, land of Quetzal and heart of the Mayan world, is a country of extraordinary contrasts ranging from imposing volcanoes to lush jungles, from ancient millenary Mayan cities to modern urban centres in constant transformation. Rich in cultures and traditions, it is recognized worldwide for the excellence of its coffee and for being the world's leading exporter of cardamom. Today with its Free Trade Agreement with Israel, Guatemala reaffirms its vocation for openness, growth and integration. My country was the first in Latin America to recognize the State of Israel, also transferring its Embassy to Jerusalem, a gesture that reflects the strength of our historic friendship with this nation.
Costa Rica, land of peace and exemplary democracy, is renowned for its historic decision to abolish its army and in 1948 to invest in education, health and the wellbeing of its people. Its commitment to nature and sustainability has made it a global benchmark in the protection of the environment and biodiversity, 40% of its landmass is designated as protected. Proud of its long standing democracy, its respect for human rights, equity and social inclusion, Costa Rica projects itself to the world in favour of peace, sustainable development and climate justice. With its "Decarbonisation of the Economy Plan" for 2050, it reaffirms its vision for the future, a small country in territory inspiring through its example and confirming its identity as a green, caring, and visionary nation.
El Salvador, small in size, has proven that the greatness of a country is not measured by its territorial extension but by its capacity to transform and move forward. In recent years it has embarked on a remarkable process of renewal under President Bukele who has made significant changes by transforming the country in security, economic growth, and modernization. Once marked by violence, El Salvador stands as a symbol of resilience where communities are regaining peace and opportunities, and flourish thanks to an increasingly stable and secure environment. Recognized internationally as the safest country in the Western Hemisphere, Salvadorians now live in peace. This nation is establishing itself as a world - class destination recording more than 41 000 international visitors in August 2025 alone, nearly more than 50% than projected for the year.
Honduras, the five-star nation, is a land of ancient history and incomparable natural beauty. It is home to the majestic Mayan ruins of Copan, witnesses of a glorious past alongside Caribbean beaches of crystal clear waters and surrounded by coral reefs ranked among the most beautiful in the world. Its cultural richness is expressed in its traditions, in the unique flavour of its cuisine and by the warmth of its people who are kind, cheerful and hospitable. Honduras is committed to inclusive and sustainable tourism, innovating to preserve its natural wealth and confidently projecting itself towards the future.
Four countries with distinct identities yet united by common values. Today we celebrate our freedom and our history, we celebrate both Central American unity and simultaneously the sincere friendship with Israel. To Israel we extend special recognition, thank you for walking loyally by our side and for your commitment as well as for sharing Central American values of freedom, justice and fraternity. You are a strategic ally of ours regarding our future.
May this celebration remind us that although we are different in geography and culture, we remain one family united by history, strengthened by friendship and guided by a shared destiny.
Representing the State of Israel was H.E. Ms. Sharren Haskel, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs who was ebullient and passionate in her address. Before she started her speech, she offered her condolences to the families of the six innocent victims murdered last Monday in the terrorist attack at a bus stop in Jerusalem. She also paid tribute to the four I.D.F. servicemen who fell in battle the same week defending Israel. On Tuesday, Israel struck at Hamas's leadership with a lucid message that they are unable to hide.
Israel and Central America may be oceans apart but our peoples are spiritually close, united by bonds that are rooted in our history and shared values going back to the birth of my country. The four Central American Republics stood by Israel before its establishment and Israel will never forget this gesture of sincerity. Just as the peoples of Central America reclaimed their sovereignty from colonial rule, the Jewsih people after centuries of exile reclaimed ours. This parallel struggle for independence and freedom is at the heart of our connection, our relations go far beyond diplomacy. Each year, thousands of young Israelis travel through your countries discovering not only breathtaking landscapes but also the warmth of your people. As so did I, we return home with lifelong friendships and stories of generosity and cultural experiences. Your preservation of culture and tradition mirrors our own Jewish heritage where every child learns and perpetuates the meaning of ancient symbols such as the Menorah. We see visible signs of our friendship everywhere in Israel. The embassies of Guatemala and Honduras relocated to Jerusalem, El Salvador street in Jerusalem and a square in Ramle, Costa Rica streets in Jerusalem and Haifa and Guatemala street in Jerusalem as well as many Jerusalem street names across Central America. These are not simply names on signs but symbols of a profound and enduring friendship. In churches and houses of worship across your region it is common to see Israeli flags and Hebrew verses.
Through Mashav, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Division of International Development Aid, countless frameworks for cooperation have been created in Agriculture, Medicine, Food Security, Water and Cyber. Thousands of students from your countries have spent months studying in Israel.
In 2018 Guatemala courageously moved its Embassy to Jerusalem following in the footsteps of H.E. Mr. Jorge Garcia Granados who in 1947 championed Israel's creation at the United Nations. In 2021 Honduras moved its Embassy to Jerusalem standing proudly with us. In 1947 Honduras gave its flag to the ship, Exodus, which transported Holocaust survivors towards freedom. During World War 11, El Salvador's Consul General in Geneva. H.E. Mr. Jose Arturo Castellanos saved thousands of Jews during the Holocaust and is honoured by Yad Vashem as a "Righteous Among the Nations". In 1947 Costa Rica's envoy, Father Nunez campaigned tirelessly across Latin America for the establishment of the State of Israel. Costa Rica's recent adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism is another powerful stand against hatred. She concluded her address by stating that Israel looks forward to more delegations, friendships, partnerships and knowledge - sharing that will last for generations.
A toast was proposed in which the Deputy Minister and four Ambassadors participated on stage.
Alan Bochoeyer, a singer and songwriter originally from Argentina was the evening's D.J. who played traditional MesoAmerican music contributing to the evening's festivity.
Among many dignitaries present were Ambassadors ,diplomats, H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, H.E. Mr. Amir Ofek, the Foreign Ministry's Director General for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Nathan Allalouf, Costa Rica's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mrs Amit Fogel, Honorary Consul of Paraguay in Israel, Mrs. Margot Allalouf, originally from Brazil, Mother of Costa Rica's Honorary Consul in Israel, Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld, Honorary Consul of El Salvador, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce , Mr. Maor Ifrah, an advisor in Israel's Foreign Ministry, Mr. Yosef Garmon of Humanitarian Coalition, a NGO that has projects in MesoAmerica, Mr. Ohad Atia, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs spokesperson , Ms. Yulia Oria, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs digital spokesperson , Mr. Gabriel Hayon, Chairman of the Diplomatic Institute
Mr.Tony Raichler, head of International Affairs for Latin America in the Knesset and Ofir Bronfen, CEO of Connect,
Catering by Moulin Dore included a selection of cheese, canopies, salads, crudites, smoked and baked salmon, pesto, tomato paste, a selection of bread, ratatouille, fresh fruit, macarons and petit four.
Diplomacy.co.il & www.diariojudio.com congratulate the Four Central American Republics on the auspicious occasion of 204 years of independence , the best wishes for continued growth of bilateral relations and for an inimitable evening of happiness and conviviality.
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On the auspicious occasion of Uruguay's 200th anniversary of independence, the Ambassador of Uruguay to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Manuel Etchevarren , and his wife Mrs. Ana Solivellas hosted a reception at the Benjamin Hotel in Herzliya Pituach.
The hall was decorated with the national flags of Uruguay and Israel, a poster of Uruguay's most iconic musician, Ruben Rada, a celebratory poster decorated with the Uruguayan flag and the date of independence and Uruguay's most notable musical instrument, the Tamboriles which is a skin headed barrel drum.
Both national anthems were played and sung with gusto as a result of the words of each anthem appearing on a screen.
The Ambassador's speech was lucid, articulate and appreciated by everyone especially for its good vibes. He started his speech by welcoming everyone present including Israeli Foreign Ministry's representatives, Member of Knesset Moshe Saada, accredited diplomats in Israel and compatriots. He stated that today Uruguay is celebrating 200 years of independence. Two years ago Uruguay commemorated 75 years of bilateral relations with Israel almost coinciding with 75 years of the establishment of the State of Israel. In reality, bilateral relations between the two countries go back further than three quarters of a century due to the fact that Uruguay played an important role in the movement that led to the creation of Israel, namely the decisive vote in the United Nations General Assembly leading to its independence. He also mentioned that we could not imagine the hardships that would follow after the 7th of October 2023 bringing misfortune. Currently 50 hostages are held both dead and alive after 689 days of captivity. On a more philosophical note, "to defend joy" he quoted the Uruguayan author, journalist and poet, Mario Benedetti "that is why we are now". He concluded his speech by acknowledging the dedication and effort of the Embassy staff including his dynamic P.A. Tamara, as well as Andrea and Alicia, Uruguay's two Honorary Consuls in Israel, the importers of Garzon wines making Uruguayan wine available to the Israeli public and to the representatives of Castel Pujol, a family of Uruguayan winemakers who introduced the idea of the Tannat cultivar to create a unique style of red wines.
After his speech a video made available by Uruguay' Foreign Ministry to all Uruguayan embassies worldwide celebrating the bicentennial anniversary of independence of Ruben Rada, the country's most iconic musician and a household name in Latin American music, performed Candombe, a musical genre which originated from liberated African slaves. In 2009 Unesco inscribed Candombe in the official Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .
Sumptuous cocktails and food of traditional Latin American cuisine by Catering Mabel Haiat included Sandwiches de miga, canapes and empanados and copious amounts of Uruguayan wine.
Among the many illustrious guests present was H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel, Israel's Chief of State Protocol, Ms. Liliane Haim, Director of the Foreign Ministry's Protocol Department, Mr. Udi Avivi from the Foreign Ministry's Latin American, Caribbean and Africa Economic Division, Uruguay's Honorary Consuls, Mr. Abraham Maman and Mr. Julio Lieberman, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Gabriel Hayon, Chaiman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Doron Afik of Afik Law Firm, Mr. Aiderson Gonzales, Afik Law Firm's Business Development Manager for Latin America, Amichai Benderski, internationally renowned Uruguayan graphic artist now living and working in Israel, Mr. Inbar Stein Barber, CEO of Isralat , Dr. Julio Liebermann, a Uruguayan surgeon who lives here, Mr.Tony Raichler, head of International Affairs for Latin America in the Knesset and Mrs.Georgina Litvak, the Benjamin Hotel's Corporate Sales Manager. .
Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates the Ambassador and is grateful to the Embassy staff for their gracious hospitality and for a memorable evening.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Shalva Prize for Social Equality and Inclusion - H.E. Iván Duque Márquez Fundación In recognition of your steadfast leadership and commitment to social inclusion and human dignity.
The book launch event and the awarding of the Shalva Prize yesterday at the Shalva Center in Jerusalem, with the presence of the former President of the Republic of Colombia and founder of the Innovation for Development Foundation, Mr. Iván Duque Márquez, was not just another diplomatic gathering. Whether because of the presence of Shalva – the Israeli Association for the Care and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities – or due to the current events unfolding in Argentina, the event was unique and deeply moving.
Distinguished ambassadors present included: representatives of the Republic of Panamá, Paraguay, Guatemala, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Perú, Argentina, and Kosovo; Taiwan, Ghana, Kenya, North Macedonia; the Kingdom of Spain, the Republic of Angola, Ecuador, Austria, and the Republic of the Philippines.
Also attending were additional members of diplomatic missions, esteemed representatives of the Government of Israel, entrepreneurs from the Innovation for Development Foundation, members of the Shalva staff, Latin leaders, journalists, Olami Latino youth, and friends of Shalva. Among the distinguished guests were Rabbi Yosef Garmon, Dan Orian – Israel’s Ambassador for Public Diplomacy, Roni Kaplan – IDF Spokesperson in Spanish, Moti Levin, and Mrs. Moran Shmueloff – an expert in public relations, networking and communication productions in the social and political arena.
Shalva was established 35 years ago with the mission of caring for individuals with disabilities while promoting their optimal inclusion in society. Since its founding, the scope of services provided to children and their families has expanded dramatically. Today, the organization, which has become a national center located in Jerusalem, offers a wide variety of services to thousands of children and adults every week.
The Shalva National Center hosts unique and innovative programs that include the best in complementary therapies: sport, art, and music therapy, life skills acquisition, leisure activities for children and their families, vocational training and preparation for the workforce, support and empowerment of adults with disabilities through independent living, volunteering in the IDF and national service, and much more.
The award ceremony was hosted by Chaya Bisker – a mother of seven children, including Rafael and Gabriel who accompanied her at the event. She shared her moving story as a mother of a daughter with Down Syndrome, thanks to whom she became part of the Shalva family, alongside Mr. Kalman Samuels, the founder and president of Shalva.
“ During the event, the former president also launched his book “ Fuerza y Verdad
The president also addressed the tragedy of October 7th, saying: “What happened on October 7th was the embodiment of barbaric acts. A person willing to kill and to kidnap another represents barbarism and inhumanity. In 2006, I wrote a memo when Hamas became a political party, but for me, they have always been a terrorist organization. Hamas seeks to bring about the end of the State of Israel and of the Jewish people – they are the enemy of any chance for peace. They use their civilians as human shields and attempt to manipulate public opinion. What Hamas sought to achieve on October 7th can be summarized in three areas: First, to provoke a brutal reaction in order to isolate Israel and demonize it in the international arena – even as Israel continues to build alliances with other nations. Second, to increase incidents of antisemitism worldwide. And at this point, it is clear to everyone that peace can only be achieved when Hamas is no longer in power.”
He further added: “Third, the international community must understand that Israel is approaching its 80th year, yet it does not live in a comfortable region and has endured many wars. What happened on October 7th is not only terrorism but also a profound challenge to Israeli society – not only terrorism, but an existential threat to Israel itself. A response that is too soft from Israel could lead to a future in which, one hundred years from now, the Jewish state no longer exists. Therefore, in order to achieve peace, Hamas must not remain in power. In conclusion, I want to express my empathy for Israel. On the last day I met with many people, including families of the hostages. The world must know what happened on October 7th, and this can only be achieved through direct encounters between people.”
Following his speech, the former president received a special pomegranate sculpture, which contains testimonies of the October 7th massacre. The creator of the pomegranate, Mr. Igor, explained: “After hearing a few years ago about Jewish communities that were destroyed in the Holocaust in a single day – without any memorial – we came up with the idea of creating a symbolic commemoration. We designed a pomegranate sculpture which, when scanned with a phone, displays a video commemorating the massacre of the Holocaust. After October 7th, we created pomegranates to memorialize this massacre as well.”
Towards the conclusion of the event, it is worth noting that the Embassy of Colombia in Israel shared on its social media that former President Iván Duque, founder of the Innovation for Development Foundation, arrived in Israel accompanied by a delegation of young Colombian entrepreneurs. This mission seeks to strengthen the ties between Colombia and Israel by engaging with the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem of the Startup Nation. The young dreamers and creators in this delegation did not only come to be inspired by Israel’s innovative spirit, but also to share their own projects and the positive impact they generate in their communities. Together with Iván Duque, they are building strategic connections aimed at transforming their regions and opening new opportunities for Colombia.
The event opened with a moving performance by two musicians: violinist Ariel Hadad and Ori Averbuch, who played an instrumental rendition of Jerusalem of Gold followed by Leonard Cohen’s timeless song Hallelujah
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates Shalva, H.E. Iván Duque Márquez Fundación, and all of the organizers and participants of this important event.
Nimrod Paperni is a member of https://debateforpeace.org
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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On Tuesday, 29 July 2025, a farewell reception in honour of Israel's newly appointed Ambassador to Panama, H.E. Mr. Mattanya ( Matty ) Cohen was hosted by the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce and by Honorary Consul of Belize and Vice President of the Ambassadors Club executive committee, Mr. Yoram Ray Naor in Herzliya Pituach. Many Latin American Ambassadors to Israel, high ranking government officials and members of Israel's international community attended the event.
H.E. Mr Mattanya Cohen was the Foreign Ministry's Head of the Latin American and Caribbean Division prior to his new appointment as Ambassador to Panama.
Israel's Chief of State Protocol, H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel congratulated Israel's new Ambassador to Panama praising his tireless efforts, many years of devoted service and visionary leadership which have intensified Israel's multilateral relations with Latin and MesoAmerican countries.
H.E. Mr. Mattanya Cohen responded by expressing his gratitude and thanks to his colleagues, partners and friends for their unwavering support throughout his career. He acknowledged and warmly mentioned his wife, Shira and their son, also present at the event.
H.E. Mr. Yitzhak Eldan, President of the Ambassadors Club, also Israel's former Chief of State Protocol and Ambassador to UNESCO offered a touching tribute, "We could not be prouder of you dear Matty, your steady leadership and reasoned voice are exactly what the world and Israel need presently".
Present at the reception were Mrs. Maya Sherman, Senior Innovation Officer at India's Ministry of the Exterior, H.E. Mr. Ofek Amir, the Foreign Ministry's Head of the Latin American Division, Dr. Ronit Almog, Ichilov Hospital Head of the International Humanitarian Programme, Ambassadors of Paraguay, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Vietnam, Dominican Republic, Mr. Natan Allalouf, Honorary Consul of Costa Rica, Mr. David Ben Basat, Vice President of ACI and Honorary Consul of Nauru, Mr. Roberto Spindel, President of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce, Mrs. Sara Allalouf, Honorary Consul of Latvia, Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld, Honorary Consul of El Salvador, Mr. Maor Ifrah, an advisor in Israel's Foreign Ministry, Mr. Lior Haiat, the Foreign Ministry's North American Division's Director and Mr. Marian Cohen, President of C Mer Industries and more.
The evening was filled with warmth, admiration, and best wishes as guests celebrated Ambassador Cohen's contributions and looked forward with great confidence to his new role in Panama.
Diplomacy.co.il & www.diariojudio.com wish H.E. Mr Mattanya Cohen and his family have an abundance of success and Heavenly Aid as Israel's Ambassador to Panama.
Antoanet (Tony) levy
External Relations & Innovation President's Office,
HIT Holon Institute of Technology
Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
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