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- Written by Prime Minister's Media Adviser
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara, this evening (Tuesday, 3 July 2018), attended an event in honor of American Independence Day hosted by US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman.
Prime Minister Netanyahu:
"It's a wonderful celebration of 4th of July anytime in Israel but this year it's special. This year President Trump moved the embassy after declaring Jerusalem Israel's capital. In the UN -- a powerful defense of Israel day in, day out.
And you remember that Iran nuclear deal? Remember that? President Trump decided to leave this bad deal and he did the greatest thing for the security of the world and for the security of Israel. Now, you should know that this is not yet universally accepted. And I can tell you that this week there's going to be a meeting and the meeting is going to be in Europe. Can you hear me? You got to hear this. Listen to me carefully. There is a meeting this week by the P4 without the United States. They are going to discuss how to go around the decision that President Trump and the United Stated made to leave this bad deal, which is funding Iran's terrorism and its aggression with billions of dollars.
There is in the same week something extraordinary. The P4 invited Iran's President Rouhani to attend that meeting. But at the same time, in recent days, this same regime dispatched a terrorist cell to carry out a major terrorist action in France. The commander of this terrorism cell was an Iranian diplomat in Austria. Fortunately, the plot was exposed. The cell's Iranian members were arrested in France, Belgium, and Germany. France and Germany are part of the P4. At the time of their capture, the cell members had explosives, detonators and more. European authorities are now completing their investigation and are expected to charge the Iranian agents and cell members behind the plot.
This Iranian terror plot was planned on the soil of Europe on the same week that the European leaders are supposed to meet the President of Iran about circumventing the sanctions on Iran. Here's my message to the European leaders: Stop funding the very regime that is sponsoring terrorism against you and against so many others. Stop appeasing Iran.
This is what President Trump has said but he's gone well beyond saying it. This is what he is doing. And we in Israel can appreciate this.
We're grateful for America's independence. We're grateful for America's strength. We're grateful for America's alliance with Israel.
Now, you know I'm both the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister so I can tell you: We have relations with 160 countries and some of these are terrific friends. But there is no friendship like the friendship between Israel and the United States of America. American has no greater friend than Israel. Israel has no greater friend than America.
What makes this alliance so powerful? So enduring? What makes it so? Well, one thing – common values. We have common values that are clear – it's freedom, liberty, democracy. These aren't hollow slogans. They are the bedrock of Western civilization. They're the secret of America's success and of Israel's success. They're the secret of our ingenuity – Israel's and America – the big leaders of technology in the world. I'm a diplomat so I have to be careful. There are only two places, they say, where everything is happening. We have tremendous respect for American ingenuity, for American creativity, for American mobility, for American capacities in every field. And we know where that comes from. It comes from a free society, from free discussion. We argue about everything. Believe me, I know. We have a free press. Believe me, I know. We have free speech. We have freedom of religion. Freedom, liberty, democracy. Real values. Here's what the Liberty Bell says, inscribed on it: 'Proclaim liberty throughout the land unto all of its Inhabitants'. We know that phrase. It comes from the Bible. It comes from Leviticus. So much of America's heritage is rooted in the Hebrew Bible. It is in the Bible that our prophets consoled us. They said the exiles will be gathered back to our ancient homeland. We will restore our national life here. We will restore our capital Jerusalem.
And 70 years later, President Trump brought the embassy to Jerusalem. David, I have one message for you. I have one request: Next year in Jerusalem. This is a fine and beautiful hall, immaculately done. Next year in Jerusalem right next to the American embassy. There can't be a more glorious gathering with greater friends.
Thank you all. God bless America. God bless Israel and God bless the alliance between America and the State of Israel."
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
- Details
- Written by Silvia G Golan
The President of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela, has arrived in Israel in order to reinforce the economic relations between the two countries. During the visit, a bilateral free-trade agreement will be signed for the first time between Panama and Israel. This is the first agreement of its kind to be signed by Israel with any country in Latin America.
During his visit, President Varela will be accompanied by the Vice President of Panama, Isabel Saint Malo, Augusto Arosemena, the Minister of Commerce & Industry; the Minister of Agriculture Development, Enrique Charles, as well as a delegation of businessmen.
A special economic event held at the Hilton Hotel in Tel Aviv, at the invitation of the President of Panama, for the purpose of exposing Panama to investments. Panama's Ambassador to Israel, Mrs. Adis Urieta Vega, advised that among the subjects which were presented at the Conference are: cyber protection, tourism, medical devices, clean technology, and water.
The president of Panama, H.E. Mr. Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez, visited Israel for several high-level meetings, and to advance diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two nations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with President Varela at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. They held both a private meeting and an expanded meeting with their entourages. During the meetings, the following were signed:
* A bilateral free trade agreement – The agreement will lift restrictions on trade between Israel and Panama, in both directions, and enable free trade.
* A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on establishing a center for agricultural excellence in Panama. Israel will establish in Panama a center that will combine Israeli technologies and training. This would be the first such center in Latin America and is expected to significantly assist agriculture in Panama.
During his visit, President Varela visited Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, toured the Holocaust History Museum, participated in a memorial ceremony in the Hall of Remembrance, visited the Children's Memorial, and signed the Yad Vashem Guest Book.
As a guest of the Keren Kayemet Le’Israel-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), President Varela planted a tree in the Grove of Nations in Jerusalem as part of his first official visit to Israel. President Varela also requested the help of KKL-JNF in order to plant a forest the size of “one million hectares”in Panama, utilizing the professional knowledge and international experience KKL-JNF holds in the field of forestation.
In addition, President Varela and his wife Mrs. Lorena Castilla de Varela joined Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and his wife Nehama for a dinner in their honor at the President’s residence.
Panama is located in the center of the American continent, which makes this a strategic location. Panama has a sophisticated banking system, has had a fully-dollarized economy (since 1904), a sympathetic government and extensive trade relations with the entire continent. It is considered to be the Latin investment capital. The expansion of the Canal and the establishment of the Diamond Exchange in the country – are opening up business opportunities in these areas as well. Panama has the second largest free-trade zone in the world.
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
- Details
- Written by Jonathan Danilowitz
Kazakhstan Independence Day in Israel
Kazakh and Russian have equal status as national languages in the Republic of Kazakhstan, and were clearly the dominant languages among the elegant guests at the reception hosted by His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Doulat Kuanyshev, and Mrs. Gulmira Mamytbayeva, at the David Intercontinental Hotel in Tel Aviv last Thursday.
The hotel ballroom was decorated with Kazakh themes, including at the entrance a beautiful cake adorned by the country’s flag. Guests from Israel’s diplomatic corps, Kazakh society, Israeli VIPs and others had ample opportunity to greet and meet as drinks were served. Among the special guests were M.K. Sofa Landver (Minister of Immigrant Absorption), Ambassador Shlomo Morgan (Israeli Foreign Ministry), Ehud Olmert (former Prime Minister), Hezi Bezalel ( businessman and honorary consul of Rwanda), Yair A. Stern (Director General, Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra) and Stella Yudko (concert producer).
After the ceremonial part of the evening the guests were treated to a range of exotic entertainments by Kazakh musicians, dancers and singers. Flowing costumes, mysterious melodies, and unusual musical instruments all made for interesting performances.
His Excellency Ambassador Kuanyshev opened his address to the guests with a very warm welcome to all who came to honor the Republic of Kazakhstan on its national day celebrations. He made special mention of the guests of honor who graced the occasion: Avi Gabai, Minister of Environmental Protection of the State of Israel; Michael Brodsky, Ambassador-designate of the State of Israel in the Republic of Kazakhstan; Ambassador Meron Reuben, Ambassador Zvi Rav-Ner; and Olzhas Suleymenov, writer and poet, who was for many years ambassador of Kazakhstan to UNESCO. The Ambassador spoke of the economic spheres is his country, diversification of the economy and improving the economic climate. “On the personal note, for me this was the first year working in Israel. In this connection I would like to thank for the support and sympathy from Israelis, allowing me quickly get accustomed here and to feel so at home.”
He continued: “I would like to express special gratitude to my Israeli compatriots repatriated from Kazakhstan, and also to all compatriots from the former Soviet Union. We celebrated the 70th anniversary of Great Victory together with them. I am also glad to meet with those Israelis whose ancestors were not the citizens of the USSR, but who had to be evacuated to the Kazakh land during World War II. They comprise refugees from such countries as Poland, Romania, etc. Their children and grandchildren built Israel, but they remember those who saved the lives of their grandparents.
“In 2015 our relations were heightened. We hope to conduct a series of important bilateral events next year. They include the 7th session of Inter-Governmental Commission, signing of the convention on avoiding of double taxation. We also look forward to the visit of the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, to Kazakhstan. In this context, we hope to bring commercial and economic cooperation and tourist and cultural connections between our countries to a new level. Also we expect to solve two key issues: visa-free trips and restarting of direct air links.
“In conclusion, I would like to thank again our guests for their warm congratulations on the occasion of the Independence Day.” The ambassador sent his warm greeting to the people of Israel for the Chanukah holiday.
In responding on behalf of the Government and the State of Israel and its people, Minister Avi Gabai thanked the Ambassador and sent warm greetings to the President of Kazakhstan its people of their anniversary.
“When Israel and Kazakhstan established diplomatic relations between them in 1992, a cornerstone was laid for close and important relations which developed and expanded with the passing of time. Israel was among the first countries to recognize the independence of Kazakhstan. Over more than two decades, the strong relations between the two countries have been based on mutual respect, common values and close cooperation.
“The broad and deep cooperation between the peoples and the states encompasses many fields: political, economic, cultural, academic interreligious, tourism, development issues etc. … The deepening of the cooperation in those areas was discussed and advanced during the political dialogue between Israel and Kazakhstan last month in Jerusalem.
“We will forever remember and be grateful to the Kazakh people for the shelter and salvation they provided to thousands of Jews who fled for their lives from the horrors of the Holocaust.
“Mr. Ambassador, allow me to thank you personally for your efforts to promote the relations between our two nations. Please convey to President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan our warm greetings on the occasion of 24 years of your independence. May the future bring with it prosperity to your country and a strengthening of the links of friendship between Israel and Kazakhstan.
Long live the friendship between Israel and Kazakhstan.”
The event took place during the Jewish Festival of Lights – Chanukah. The hosts graciously invited religious authorities to be present with the traditional nine-branched chandelier / candelabrum. In a moving ceremony, the correct number of candles was lit, with an honor of lighting accorded to His Excellency the Ambassador, while the appropriate blessings were recited. A tradition of thousands of years.
A fine buffet dinner accompanied the entertainment that followed.
Photo by Mark krugliak
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan & Amalia Cedar Kellner
On the occasion of Europe Day 2018, the Delegation of the European Union to Israel hosted a gala celebration at the home of the EU Ambassador to Israel, H.E. Mr. Emanuele Giaufret, and his wife Min-ja, at his residence in Herzliya Pituach.
Ambassador Giaufret opened his remarks by observing the incredible growth in Israel since he had visited 10 years prior. He noted the dynamic physical and economic progress that Israel has been undergoing as positive signs for the future.
The ambassador listed several challenges that the European Union has faced in recent years--economic, demographic, security, political. But he observed that these challenges have resulted in a more resilient union. Observing the diversity of the populations of the European Union, Ambassador Giaufret said that this called for the EU and its members to display “compromise, trust and goodwill.” Looking to the future, the ambassador pointed out that regardless of what uncertainties might be faced, a united Europe will be better positioned to succeed than one divided.
A key point of unity identified by Ambassador Giaufret was unity of values, including a commitment to secure, pluralistic, liberal democracy. He noted that these values were shared with Israel as well, and reiterated the European hope to see an independent Palestinian state succeeding side by side a safe and secure Israel. To get there, the ambassador stressed the importance of diplomacy as the primary tool for communication and mutual success.
In a pre-recorded video message, European Union High Representative and Vice-President Federica Mogherini highlighted the need for European countries to pool their resources to best address global challenges. In her message, Mogherini highlighted the potential for advancing multilateralism, peace, sustainable development, free trade, human rights and democracy if European member states continue to work together.
Israeli Minister of Energy, Infrastructure and Water, Yuval Steinitz, addressed the audience on behalf of the Israeli government. Offering congratulations to Europe and the European Union, Minister Steinitz touched upon recent interactions with Iran and the Iranian nuclear deal. The minister mentioned that that Iran’s regional aspirations and actions posed a threat to Israel and many other states in the region, and thus to global peace and stability. He emphasized that Israel appreciated Europe’s support for its right to self-defense. He talked about the Iranian pursuit of nuclear weapons, and emphasized that diplomacy was needed to ensure that Iran would never resume that pursuit, for the sake of regional and global peace and stability. In closing, the minister returned to the topic of energy, pledging that in light of the recent finding and development of Mediterranean gas fields, Israel would be a stable future source of energy for Europe.
Following the speeches, the European Union and Israeli anthems were played, and guests enjoyed music and dinner at the ambassador’s residence.
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by blue and yellow floral arrangements, matching the EU colors.
Among the distinguished guests were Ambassador Meron Reuven, chief of protocol for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Rodica Radian-Gordon, head of the Europe Division at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Chairman of the Israel-EU Chamber of Commerce Gad Proper; Ambassador Yitzhak Eldan, head of the Israeli Center for Young Leaders and the Israel School for Young Ambassadors, and numerous Israeli and foreign diplomats, business leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Diplomacy.co.il wishes congratulations on Europe Day 2018.
Photos Silvia G Golan
- Details
- Written by Jonathan Danilowitz
Celebrating the King of Thailand.
Culturally, Thailand and Israel are worlds apart. But there is so much in Thai art, music, food and nature that Israelis appreciate and enjoy. Thus the Thai atmosphere in the Grand Ballroom of Tel Aviv’s Hilton Hotel last Thursday was especially appealing and welcoming. The cream of Thai and Israeli society gathered to celebrate and congratulate His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 88th birthday, a day also recognized and observed as Thailand’s National Day. Beautiful traditional Thai décor, including baskets of flowers and multicolored decorated and sculpted fruits, Thai silk flowers, and Thai musicians brought especially from Thailand, welcomed and delighted the guests. Cocktails and snacks, including imported Thai beer were served before the formal speeches and dinner. Thailand in Tel Aviv!
Guests included many ambassadors and diplomats, not to mention government, society and business leaders. Amongst others were Dov Kalmann, representative of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in Israel, Zvi Gur of El Al Israel Airlines, Asher Roseman of Roseman & Co., and of course, Naomi Hurvitz, Chief Executive and owner of the luxurious Sheva Thai Spa at the Hilton Hotel.
Her Excellency Ambassador Angsana Sihapitak addressed the gathering. In her opening remarks she welcomed the guests and noted that: “His Majesty is the world’s longest-reigning monarch and has reigned over the Kingdom of Thailand for almost 70 years. The name Bhumibol Adulyadej means ‘strength of the land, the incomparable power’. He is the riveting and unifying power of the Thai nation”. The Ambassador paid tribute to His Majesty, his achievements, his work for the good of the people, also pointing out that as a constitutional monarch he is above politics for the betterment of all.
Ambassador Angsana Sihapitak gave a brief overview of Thailand’s political empowerment as a member of ASEAN and other important alliances in S.E. Asia. She continued: “For our bilateral relations with Israel, we appreciate the stance of the Israeli government for their constructive gesture and understanding. Thailand & Israel have enjoyed the excellent relationship in all aspects throughout the sixty years of diplomatic relations (that we celebrated last year).
“The Thai-Israel Friendship Foundation was established in 1985, under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Mahachakri Sirindhorn who visited Israel in 1977 accompanied by Her Royal younger sister Princess Chulabhorn, to promote a long-lasting friendship and cultural exchange. In 1996 a Thai Pavilion was built in Modi’in Park, situated near the site of “Thailand-Israel Friendship Grove” where over a thousand trees were planted by the Friendship Foundation earlier in 1989, to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the throne.”
In conclusion, she proposed a toast to the good health and happiness of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and to the long lasting friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the State of Israel.
The Thai musicians then played the Thai National Anthem.
On behalf of the State of Israel, the government and the people of Israel, Knesset Member Mr. Miki Zohar responded. First, he warmly congratulated His Majesty the King, and continued: “This year we mark the 61st anniversary of the diplomatic relations between our countries. We look forward to continuing the pace of work and cooperation in a variety of fields. We have already held many events both in Thailand and in Israel, and more are yet to come.”
The Minister mentioned several cooperative projects, and then moved on to tourism: “Over 150,000 Israelis visit Thailand each year. El Al Israel Airlines operates a daily flight, and sometimes even twice a day, between Tel Aviv and Bangkok. Your country is the leading Asian tourist destination for the Israelis.
“Madam Ambassador, please convey our warm congratulations to your government and to the Thai People on the occasion of your National Day. May Thailand enjoy peace and prosperity, and may the ties of friendship and cooperation between Israel and Thailand become even stronger in the years ahead.”
Then too, the musicians played the Israeli National Anthem.
A lavish buffet dinner followed, but not before a striking display of traditional Thai dancing by professionals in Thai national dress. The grace and beauty delivered a note of Thai culture to the Israeli audience, and, we feel sure, a sense of well-being of “at home” for the Thai guests. The Thai musicians also played a striking version of the popular Israeli melody, “Hava Nagila”.
Yes, strong ties exist between Thailand and Israel.
Photos Silvia G Golan
