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.
