Diplomatic Events

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Written by Bat-Zion Susskind-Sacks

Published: 10 September 2015

September 1st is the Slovak Republic Constitution Day. In Slovak, this holiday is called 'Deň Ústavy Slovenskej republic. It commemorates the adoption of the Slovak constitution on September 1st, 1992.

This holiday is marked by traditional customs such as folk dancing and traditional singing. The parliament and Bratislava Castle are opened up to the public. In the evening, Bratislava Castle is lit up to mark the occasion.

In Israel, the event was celebrated at the home of the Slovak Republic Ambassador in Herzeliya on Monday, September 7th  .

It was hosted by the Ambassador designateת His Excellency Peter Hulenyi and his wife Tatiana Hulenyi Ova. The atmosphere was pleasant and cordial. The delectable Slovakian food prepared by “Little Prague was delectable and the guests also enjoyed the traditional Czech beer, Staropramen that was served.

Among the distinguished guests were Colonel Lubos Klima, Slovakia’s military attaché to Israel and his wife Yonca,   Mr, Amikam Muller, Haifa Branch Manager of Flying Carpet, wholesale Travel Service. His late brother,Yaron Miller, was the Honorary Consul of Slovakia in Israel and other Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Missions in Israel.

Following the address by the ambassador  H.E Peter Hulenyi  :

" Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen! Gvirotaj ve Rabotaj!

It is a great pleasure and honor to welcome you all at the celebration of a Slovak Constitution Day. Tarsu li leareach otchem be admat Slovakia. And although the ground is literary speaking Slovak, the temperature here is still a little bit more Mediterranean.

Allow me to share with you four brief points:

First: I have to underline that relations between Slovakia and Israel are traditional excellent. Nevertheless as we usually say, there is always a potential to develop. Exploring and using this potential, that is a goal of the Slovak Embassy in Israel and my personal mission as well.

For the second: As we are aware, the common history of Slovaks and Jews goes throughout centuries. Therefore I am delight to see its continuation in Israel thanks a vivid and active community of expatriates from Slovakia. I would like to use this occasion and express my gratitude for this.

Third: I am firmly convinced that the tragedy of Slovak Jews during the Second World War should not be forgotten. We have to remember and recall the murder of more than 70 thousand Slovak citizens. In this respect I am glad I could announce that a first Holocaust museum will be open in Slovakia next year. The inauguration will take place on January 26, 2016 in Sered, the city where a concentration and labor camp was located during the WW II.

At the same time I would like to highlight that Slovakia has a highest number of Righteous among Nations per capita and we are very proud on that.

Finally: Let me go back to the potential of future cooperation mentioned in my first point. Israelis are known in Slovakia as a Start-up Nation and Slovakia is a country of automotive industry with the highest number of cars per capita produced in the world. Both countries are good examples of a success story and could benefit from mutual cooperation. Common activities should be focus on start ups, cyber security, information technologies as well as agriculture, pharmacy and tourism. At the same time a people to people relation in culture, education and R&D should get an adequate attention as well.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen! Gvirotaj ve Rabotaj!

Allow me to thank you again for accepting our invitation and enjoy the evening.

Na zdravie, Lechaim,

Shana Tova."

Aviv Shiron, Deputy Director General for Europe was the guest speaker.

 He talked about the twenty two years of good and friendly relationship between Israel and Slovakia.

These are reflected not only in the trade between two nations which currently stands at $200 million, but also in the high-level official and political visits. These include visits by The Speaker of the National Council of the Slovak Republic Pavol Paška, together with the former Minister of Health Zuzana Zvolenská in the summer of 2014, Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajčák’s visit in November 2014, and the visit by Deputy Minister of Defense Milan Koterec in June 2015.

Likewise, official Israeli trips to Slovakia included visits by the then Minister of Defense Ehud Barak, Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman in 2012. This coming October, Speaker of the Knesset Edelstein will be visiting Bratislava.
Mr. Shiron took the opportunity to thank the outgoing Ambassador, Radoslav Javorcik for his efforts and contribution to the good relationship between Israel and the Slovak Republic and wished the Ambassador-Designate Peter Hulényi much success in his new post.

 Photo Silvia Golan

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Written by MFA Spokesperson's Bureau

Published: 08 September 2015

Official opening of Embassy of Zambia in Israel

Israel and Zambia are interested in deepening bilateral relations, with emphasis on water, green energy and agriculture. Zambia is in the process of incorporating advanced technologies and sees Israel as a natural partner in its endeavors.

The dedication ceremony for the Embassy of Zambia in Israel took place on Monday (8 September) in the presence of Zambian Foreign Minister Harry Kalaba and the Director General of Israel's Foreign Ministry, Dr. Dore Gold.

During his visit in Israel (6-10 September), FM Kalaba is conducting meetings with Israel's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of National Infrastructure, Energy and Water, the Minister for Social Equality, and the Deputy Foreign Minister. He will also meet with Israeli companies in the fields of agriculture, solar energy and technology, with the aim of promoting cooperation.

Zambia and Israel enjoy friendly relations. Diplomatic ties between the two countries were renewed in 1991. The previous president of Zambia, Michael Sata, worked during his term of office to open an embassy in Israel. Both countries are very interested in deepening bilateral relations, with an emphasis on promoting cooperation in the fields of water, green energy and agriculture. Zambia is in the process of incorporating advanced technologies and sees Israel as a natural partner in its endeavors.

At its peak, the Jewish community in Zambia numbered 1000; today, only 30 Jews remain. Recently a museum on the history of Zambian Jewry opened in the city of Livingston. The Jewish community maintains the three Jewish cemeteries in Zambia.

In the past year, three African states have opened embassies in Israel: South Sudan, Rwanda and Zambia. These states join the 11 African states already represented in Israel, a fact that demonstrates the importance of relations between Israel and Africa and the enhanced cooperation between the states.

Photo

Zambian Foreign Minister Harry Kalaba with MFA Director-General Gold at opening of Zambian Embassy in Tel Aviv

Copyright: Israel MFA

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Written by Jonathan Danilowitz

Published: 10 September 2015

Uzbekistan Celebrates 24years of Independence

On Wednesday evening the cream of Uzbek society in Israel gathered in the ballroom of Tel Aviv’s Dan Panorama Hotel, together with the diplomatic community and other invited Israeli VIPs and guests. The occasion: to celebrate the 24th National Independence Day of the republic of Uzbekistan. Hosting the evening was His Excellency Oybek Eshonov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the State of Israel, together with his charming wife, Mrs. Mohira Eshinova. The foyer to the ballroom was decorated with motifs and cultural icons of the country, so that the proper atmosphere for an ethnic evening began right away.

The ethnic motive continued with Uzbek music and an interesting giant video showing scenes of the country. The generous buffet dinner and drinks carried through, with typical foods and tastes to remind us of the Uzbek people. Some of it remarkably similar to Israeli dishes – a reminder of the large numbers of the Jewish community in Uzbekistan who have settled in Israel, and brought and shared their heritage.

Among the guests were members of cultural and artistic circles, Diplomats, business leaders, society members, the media and more. Guests included Mr. Amnon Cohen, who was born in Uzbekistan - former Israeli Cabinet Minister (five times) representing the SHAS political party - and today the Chairman of the Israel-Uzbekistan Parliamentary Friendship Association;  delegates of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs included MM.Zvi Bar-Ner, Deputy Director General for Euro-Asia, Mrs Ofra Farhi, Head of the Economic Department in charge of Euro asia , Ambassador Shlomo Morgan from the Protocol Department who translated Minister David Azoulay's speech in English , Oren Anolik and Oded Josef.

Ambassador Eshonov was introduced by the Deputy Chief of the Mission, Mr. Murod Gulyamov. His Excellency began his address to the guests by welcoming the assembly and thanking them all for helping to celebrate the auspicious event. “It has been 24 years since Uzbekistan has proclaimed its sovereignty and entered into the new phase of historic development. Within a short period of time, our country has gone through a difficult but glorious journey.

Today we are rightfully proud of our achievements in all spheres of our society. The proof of this progress can easily be seen in the enormous changes in each family, large-scale transformation in our towns, villages and the country as a whole. … Over the last 10 years the economic growth of our country consistently exceeded 8%. Uzbekistan is ranked number five among the countries with accelerated economic development.”

The Ambassador mentioned that Israel had been one of the first countries to recognize the new Republic. He spoke of the centuries old friendship, brotherhood and harmony with the Jewish people, and added: “I would like to use this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to the Government of the Israel for ongoing policy in strengthening bilateral cooperation. Our countries continuously keep active political dialogue and put a special importance into strengthening trade and economic relations. In the near future Tashkent will host the next round of policy planning consultations between the Foreign Ministries of our two countries. I also look forward to the support of our initiative to organize the first session of intergovernmental commissions in the capital of Uzbekistan taking place before the first half of next year.”

His Excellency ended his address with warm greetings: “On the eve of Israeli New Year, I would like to wish good health and great success to you, and peace and prosperity to all people of Israel. Let "Rosh Hashanah" bring much joy and happiness to each family and each house in Israel.”

Israel’s Minister of Religious Services, Mr. David Azoulai, responded on behalf of the government and the people of Israel, in Hebrew, followed by a translation into English.. He thanked the hosts and the host country and extended warm congratulations on behalf of the State of Israel. “Israel was one of the first countries to recognize the independence of Uzbekistan, and since the establishment of diplomatic relations 23 years ago, we have enjoyed a friendly relationship in all fields. This friendship between Israel and Uzbekistan is based on mutual respect, shared values and a similar view of the strategic challenges we face. For this reason, we have developed cooperation in numerous areas – close political ties, economic cooperation as well as cooperation in the fields of culture and education. The two countries are partners in the fight against religious extremism and work to promote tolerance among peoples and religions.”

Mr. Azoulai added: “We cannot speak of Israel-Uzbekistan relations without mentioning the magnificent Jewish community that lived and flourished in Uzbekistan. Israel has a moral debt to the leadership of Uzbekistan for the warmth and tolerance it has shown and continues to show to the Jewish community. This is true both for the ancient Bukharan community, whose presence in Uzbekistan dates to the destruction of the First Temple, and for the Jews who fled the horrors of Nazi Germany and took refuge in Uzbekistan during WWII … and the important role the Uzbek leadership and people played in rescuing the Jews who decided to flee to Tashkent.”

The Minister concluded: “Please allow me to conclude by thanking you personally for your work to promote the relations between our countries. Please convey the respect and gratitude of the People of Israel has for the Uzbek people and leadership to President Karimov. Allow me to send the most sincere congratulations from Israel on your 24th anniversary of independence. We look forward to continued cooperation and courageous friendship between Israel and Uzbekistan”.

The two speakers welcomed Ms. Yulia Masti Moroz, also Uzbek-born and now resident in Israel, who sang the national anthems of both countries.

After dinner and the formal part of the evening, guests were entertained by a charmed performance of Uzbekistan music and dance, by a quartet of musicians and a magnificent dancer, all brought out to Israel especially for this event.

Congratulations Uzbekistan, may the country go from strength to strength.

Photos Silvia G Golan

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Written by Jonathan Danilowitz

Published: 06 September 2015

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam Celebrates.

And not just any celebration; but the 70th anniversary of the National Day of the country. The invited guests gathered to celebrate in the elegant ballroom of Tel Aviv’s Dan Hotel. On giant screens, a video showing the extent of Vietnam’s advances (and the tribulations which were overcome) over the years. The country has much of which to be proud.

While cocktails and snacks were served, members of the Diplomatic Corps mingled with the top echelons of Israeli and Vietnamese military, scientific, educational, agricultural and VIP society. Among those present were many Ambassadors (to mention just three: Sri Lanka, South Africa, Croatia); Mark Sofer, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Igor Zakashansky, Head of the Wing Chun Kung Fu Federation of Israel; Prof. Uriel Reichmann of the Herzliya Interdisciplinary Center, and the Honorary Consul of Vietnam Mr. Igal Ahouvi with his partner, TV personality and model Galit Guttmann, and many others.

His Excellency Ambassador Ta Duy Chinh welcomed his guests in a moving address. He spoke of the establishment of the country (the declaration of independence 70 years ago by then President Ho Chi Minh), the difficulties and successes of the country and its warm people. “Over the past 70 years, with a solid unity and unwavering determination, Vietnamese people have heroically overcome all kinds of challenges and difficulties, tirelessly endeavored toward that end and have recorded outstanding achievements”. His Excellency noted that the country is no longer at war, and has become an attractive tourist destination. “From a country with a name hardly found in the world maps a century ago, Vietnam today enjoys the diplomatic relations with 185 countries including all five permanent member of UN Security Council”. No small achievement. The Ambassador mentioned the trade, economic and business ties with more than 200 countries and territories. “With the outstanding achievements and contribution over the past 70 years, Vietnam today becomes an important player for peace, security, stability and development and a pro-active, responsible and reliable partner in the international community”.

His Excellency ended his address: “On this auspicious occasion, on behalf of the state and people of Vietnam, I would like to express our deep gratitude to all the friends of Vietnamese people all over the world for their precious friendship, supports and cooperation given to our people over the past 70 years. Vietnam and Israel share many common values and similarities and since the establishment of the diplomatic relations 22 years ago, our friendship and cooperation have been steadily strengthened and deepened. Our political ties and mutual understanding are growing. With these remarkable achievements, we have every reason to believe that Vietnam and the State of Israel can further work together to bring our bilateral relationships to a higher stage for the interests of our two countries and for peace, security and prosperity in the region and in the world. The steadily growing relations between our two countries are only made possible thanks to the endeavors by both peoples and governments, and by our business and think-tank communities”. He then proposed a toast to the National Day of Vietnam; to an ever-growing friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the State of Israel; and to [y]our good health and happiness.

Minister Avi Gabai, Israel’s Minister of Environmental Protection, then responded on behalf of the State of Israel. He thanked Ambassador Ta Duy Chinh for his kind words and then added: “This July, Israel and Vietnam marked 22 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations. We have introduced real content into our relationship over a range issues such as economic, agriculture, science, technology and more”. Minister Gabai mentioned the model dairy farm that the Israeli “MASHAV” institute has established in Ho Chi Minh City in cooperation with the Provincial Government, all based on Israeli knowledge and equipment. The farm functions as a demonstration center for farmers in the region. He also mentioned that: “Last year, over 850 students from Vietnam attended an 11-month long agricultural training program in Israel and next year we are expecting 700 students from Vietnam to attend an agricultural ‘learning through experience’ program”.

Trade and cooperation between the two countries has expanded as bilateral relations have expanded. The Minister ended his address by reemphasizing Israel’s deep commitment towards Vietnam, and expressed the hope that cooperation between the countries would expand further. “As Minister of Environmental Protection, let me add that we would be pleased to see cooperation expand also to environmental issues. On behalf of the State of Israel, its people and its Government, I ask you, Mr. Ambassador, to please convey our warmest congratulations to the Vietnamese people”.

The speeches were followed by a live rendition of the national anthems of both countries, after which a rich buffet dinner, in grand style and with many typically Vietnamese dishes, was offered to the guests.

Vietnam-Israel diplomatic relations - 22 years and counting …

Vietnam’s independence – 70 years, and blessings for many many more.

Photos: Silvia G. Golan