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On Monday, 6th of July, the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. James and Mrs. Kamali Connie Gatera hosted a lavish reception at the Carlton, Tel Aviv in honour of their county's 32nd anniversary of Liberation Day (Kwibohora).
The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi occurred from the 7th of April to the 19th of July 1994.Over 1 million Tutsis brutally lost their lives. The legacy of the genocide remains significant in Rwanda. Liberation Day is celebrated annually on 4th July. Laws were passed criminalizing the "genocide" ideology and "divisionism".
Tables were decorated with miniature Rwandan and Israeli flags and a festive atmosphere prevailed.
The Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Gashegu Niyirora, the Embassy of Rwanda's First Secretary warmly welcomed Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe and Israel's Foreign Minister, Mr. Gideon Sa'ar.
Earlier during the day, the two Ministers had an official meeting where agreements were signed to expand cooperation in development, innovation and education, strengthening their countries' partnership.
The national anthems of Rwanda and Israel were played and enthusiastically sung.
A short video about Rwanda's liberation struggle against the oppressive regime was shown. It resulted in a victory for the RPF Inkotanyi ensuring security and stability for the country.
H.E. Mr. James Gatera welcomed all and sundry. Today we are gathered to observe our Liberation Day. We pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Rwandan Patriotic Front now known as the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF). For many years before 1994, Rwanda was defined by division and conflict. Under President Paul Kagame, we are now defined by our unity, resilience, patriotism and our refusal to be held back by our past. Rwanda has been one of the fastest growing economies for over a decade. Our country is open to investors, tourism and visitors. Visas are obtained upon arrival. More foreign students are attracted to our universities. Jamaica recently faced a devastating crisis known as Hurricane Melissa in October 2025 and we dispatched a contingent of 101 specialized military engineers to support their post - disaster recovery. Rwanda is also a major contributor to UN Peacekeeping missions. We are currently working on implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area. We also learnt that our liberation and freedom cannot be taken for granted.
The Republic of Rwanda and the State of Israel have strong partnerships based on shared values, mutual respect, and similar historical tragedies that have grown significantly over the years. Through MASHAV programmes, we have worked together to modernize Rwanda's agriculture sector. The Rwandan - Israel horticultural centre for excellence was established in Kigali where farmers are trained in advanced technologies such as irrigation, greenhouse management and sustainable crop production. Pertaining to security and defence, we continue to strengthen capabilities that contribute to regional and global security. Universities in Israel provide scholarships to Rwandan students in the fields of agriculture, public health, early childhood education, cybersecurity and African studies. Other areas of cooperation include health, trade, technology and energy. Happy Liberation Day!
The Honourable Mr. Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation started his eloquent address by saying that it is a great honour to join you this evening in celebrating the 32nd anniversary of Rwanda's Liberation - Kwibohora 32. Thirty-two years ago, Rwanda emerged from humanity's darkest chapters. The liberation of our country ended the Genocide against the Tutsi and restored hope to a nation determined to rebuild itself on the foundations of unity, accountability, dignity and inclusive development. Since 1994, our economy has grown more than tenfold, poverty has declined significantly and access to education, healthcare and electricity has expanded. Life expectancy has increased from 29 years to over 70 years.
This evening celebrates the enduring friendship between Rwanda and Israel united more than by diplomatic relations. Our shared histories are marked by tragedies, namely the Holocaust and the Genocide. We chose to rebuild rather than surrender to despair. More than many, we understand the importance of security, resilience and in preserving the memory of the past to ensure that future generations can live in peace and harmony. Our cooperation with Israel includes agriculture, Israeli innovation supports Rwanda's efforts to improve productivity, food security and agribusiness development. In education and capacity building, our longstanding partnership with MASHAV has equipped hundreds of Rwandan professionals with valuable skills and expertise. In technology, innovation and investment, Israeli companies continue to contribute to Rwanda's ambitions in digital information, renewable energy, healthcare and infrastructure. In defence and security, through ongoing training initiatives, our countries continue to strengthen capacities that contribute to regional and global security. As we celebrate Kwibohora 32, we do so with confidence in the future as our journey continues. We remain committed to building a more prosperous, innovative and inclusive Rwanda. Murakoze. Todah Rabah.
Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gideon Sa'ar's speech commenced by conveying the State of Israel's congratulations to Rwandan President Paul Kagame. It was a honour to welcome Rwanda's Foreign Minister, the Honourable Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe in Jerusalem earlier today which reflected the close and growing friendship between our countries. Ambassador Gatera, with wisdom and professionalism, you have strengthened the ties between our countries, thank you. As we read in Psalms, Jerusalem is surrounded by hills, Rwanda is surrounded by a thousand hills. Few nations have demonstrated such an extraordinary ability to rebuild after unimaginable tragedies. Israel and Rwanda are two nations with different histories but with an uncommon understanding of the cost of hatred. That shared experience creates a unique moral bond between our countries placing a great responsibility upon us. We have a duty to preserve historical truth, to honour the victims and to educate future generations. I am glad that Yad Vashem is working with you to help and developed the Genocide Museum in Kigali which tells the story of the genocide against the Tutsi people. It is about ensuring that future generations understand where freedom and hatred lead and why freedom, human dignity and national responsibility must be perpetually defended. Tonight we toast not only a strong and valued friendship, but practical cooperation in agriculture, water management, innovation, healthcare, communication, education and technology. Israel's Agricultural Centre of Excellence in Kigali and the Netafim's landmark irrigation project in eastern Rwanda being the largest of its kind in Africa. Today we singed more agreements in fields of education and development with Israel's MASHAV (International Development Cooperation Agency). Israel values its friendship with Rwanda, and we are committed to expanding political dialogue, strengthening economic cooperation, increasing trade and investment and working together in international forums. We welcome the agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo led by the United States and orchestrated by President Trump. Please join me in raising a glass, L’chaim.
After the official ceremony, guests enjoyed Rwandan music and dance.
A sumptuous buffet included roast beef and potatoes, a selection of vegetables i.e. broccoli, mushrooms and string beans, fresh salads, relishes, a large array of desert (including vegan) and fresh fruit, a choice of bread, a tea - coffee station and a well stocked bar of a variety of whiskey, tequila, vodka, wine, beer and soft drinks was in abundance.
Many Ambassadors, diplomats, state officials, businessmen were present including Mr. Uri Dali, Chairman of Israel - Angola Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Joseph Haim Harrosh, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Suriname in Israel, Dr. Dani Dayan, Chairman of Yad Vashem, Mr. Guy Kruger from the Ministry of Economy and Industry's Foreign Trade Administration's Department of Trade in Services and Investment.
www.diplomacy.co.il/ expresses its deepest appreciation and gratitude to H.E. Mr. James and Mrs. Kamali Connie Gatera as well as to the Embassy staff for their gracious, generous and kind hospitality and for a memorable evening of joy. We also take this opportunity in wishing the Gatera's Heavenly Aid and success in all future endeavours as the Ambassador's term of office in Israel has come to an end.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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When Diplomacy Takes the Field: Senior Figures from Israeli Sport Meet European Ambassadors at a Special Event
As the world’s eyes turn to the FIFA World Cup in the United States, a special event was held at the residence of the European Union Ambassador to Israel under the title “Sport as a Platform for Tolerance and the Fight Against Racism”. The event was initiated by the Center for Jewish Impact and the Delegation of the European Union to Israel.
The event brought together senior figures from Israeli sport, representatives of Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and ambassadors from European countries around a shared purpose: to discuss the power of sport to connect people, communities, and cultures, and the responsibility of clubs, federations, and public institutions to combat racism, violence, and exclusion.
At the heart of the evening was the understanding that sport is far more than competition or entertainment. It is an international, accessible, and unifying language, capable of crossing borders, bringing together different identities, and creating a shared space of mutual respect. Participants emphasized that, precisely in an era of social polarization and rising expressions of hatred, the playing field can and must become an educational and social platform - one that promotes tolerance, community leadership, and mutual responsibility.
As part of the event, the Center for Jewish Impact also presented its work to promote collaborations with European sports clubs, reflecting a broader vision in which sport can serve as a bridge between communities, countries, and ideas. In addition, a special panel was held with the participation of Israel Football Association CEO Yariv Tepper and Simona Halperin, Deputy Director General of the Europe Division at Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The evening concluded with a joint screening of the World Cup match between Austria and Argentina, which ended in a 2–0 victory for Argentina thanks to a brace by Leo Messi - a win that secured him the prestigious title of the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer and marked yet another historic evening in the career of the Argentine star.
Among those watching was Austria’s Ambassador to Israel, Nikolaus Lutterotti, who was left to accept, in true sporting spirit, his home team’s defeat to Messi’s Argentina. In this sense, the event came to a particularly symbolic close: an evening devoted to tolerance, mutual respect, and the power of sport to connect people, even when, on the screen as on the pitch, there are winners and losers.
Sonia Gomes de Mesquita, CEO of the Center for Jewish Impact, said:
“At a time when the entire world is watching the World Cup, we are reminded of the immense power of sport: its ability to connect people, communities, and ideas. Precisely in an era in which the fight against racism and violence in sport is being advanced, it is important to remember that sport is far more than a game. It is a tool for strengthening communities, shaping a shared culture, and building social resilience”.
Michael Mann, Ambassador of the European Union to Israel, said:
“Sport has a unique ability to bring people together across differences of language, background and belief. At a time when racism and intolerance continue to challenge our societies, we must recognise the important role that sport can play in promoting respect, inclusion and solidarity. The European Union is proud to support initiatives that harness the unifying power of sport to build bridges between communities and to advance the shared values of equality and mutual understanding”.
Shino Zoaretz, Chairman of the Israel Football Association, said:
“In a diverse society such as Israeli society, there is, on the one hand, particularly explosive potential, and on the other, tremendous potential for building a tolerant society. Our remarkable mosaic includes so many ‘others’ that it is almost the most natural thing in the world. In football, we make a point of saying that there is room for everyone, even if you are different from what is perceived as the ‘majority.’ There is one condition: you must accept the other - including the minority. That is how you build a stronger team and a stronger society”.
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In the photo, from right: Sonia Gomes de Mesquita, Shino Zoaretz, Michael Mann.
Credit: Ben Reizer, Center for Jewish Impact.
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Center for Jewish Impact and Embassy of Panama in Israel host diplomatic salon on strategic connectors in a fragmenting world.
The Center for Jewish Impact held a diplomatic salon event in conjunction with the Embassy of Panama on Tuesday June 9th at the Brain Embassy hub in Tel Aviv. The event, highlighting the importance of global connectivity, communications, and maritime trade resilience, was titled “Strategic Connectors in a Fragmenting World: How Panama and Israel Navigate Global Trade, Resilience and Responsibility.”
The event was opened by Mr. Robert Singer, Chairman of the Center for Jewish Impact, who noted that during periods of global pressure, connections becoming increasingly important, and comparatively small countries who can serve as bridges between markets and nations take on larger roles.
H.E. Mr. Ezra Cohen, Ambassador of Panama to Israel, remarked on the strong ties between Israel and Panama, including last month’s visit by Israeli President Herzog to Panama City. Ambassador Cohen noted that Israeli entrepreneurship and economic resilience is built on a blueprint of finding ingenious solutions to challenges, and then finding ways to market those solutions to global customers. Providing an introduction to the key role of Panama in global shipping, the ambassador noted that 5-6% of global maritime trade comes through the Panama Canal each year, connecting over 170 nations. The ambassador noted the importance of the “Colon Free Zone”, with tariff free shipping, as well as Panama’s ability to incorporate technological and infrastructure adaptations to ensure continued growth and meet the evolving needs of suppliers and consumers.
After the opening remarks, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israeli-Latin American Chamber of Commerce welcomed three panelists to the stage for a roundtable discussion centered around the theme of the future of maritime trade in an uncertain global climate. The panelists: Mr. Pinchas Tsruya, CEO of the Israel Ports Company; Mr. Shaul Schneider, Chairman of the Ashdod Port, and Rear Admiral (ret.) Mr. Yuval Eylon, senior researcher at the INSS think tank, brought collectively decades of experience in private, public, civil and military maritime experience, leading to a rich and engaging discussion.
Ms. Berger set the stage for the panelists by framing the underlying question “How do nations navigate uncertainty?” The first speaker, Mr. Tsruya, explained that over 90% of Israel’s goods come via the sea, making maritime trade an irreplaceable core of the Israeli economy. Looking to the future, he discussed the importance of redundancies of ports and ensuring operational continuity, for example Israel’s ability to redirect more traffic to ports in the north or south during times of war. Mr. Schneider added to these remarks by noting that over 80% of global goods are shipped, making a truly worldwide phenomenon. Overseeing Israel’s busiest port, he sees the need for constant adaptation, including configuring piers to fit the growing size of cargo ships, and increasing automation and technology to improve efficiency. Mr. Eylon pointed out that the last few years have seen the dual impact of both global conflict in the Red Sea and Hormuz Strait areas along with climate change, leading to shipping delays and rising costs. He warned of the need to proactively protect both maritime supply chain links and communication, with underwater cables a vital part of global communications.
Looking forward, Mr. Tsruya spoke highly of the IMEC (India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor) project to reduce Iranian influence on global trade and provide a land-sea network that would only further increase the importance of Israeli ports. He noted that this would require a significant investment in infrastructure by the Israeli government, with even greater opportunities for prosperity and strategic value. Mr. Schneider raised concerns about foreign government influence and ability to impact Israel’s maritime links via ports owned or managed by foreign-controlled companies, reliance on a crane market dominated by a limited number of foreign suppliers, and cybersecurity in an age of ever-growing dependency on AI-run operations. Mr. Eylon then discussed the importance of innovation in finding solutions, giving as an example the willingness to explore new port venues, such as offshore ports on natural or artificial islands, or building ports deep underwater, where costs can be lowered and the high energy output of AI-systems can be mitigated by natural water cooling systems.
After taking questions from the audience, the panel concluded with a networking session, allowing the diplomats, business leaders and others in attendance to continue sharing ideas and contacts–a central theme of the evening, and a core part of the ethos of the diplomatic salon series.
Steven Aiello Director, Debate for Peace
Website: http://debateforpeace.org/
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Historic visit to Israel by the President of the Republic of Somaliland
In appreciation of Israel being the first country to recognize Somaliland, there was a historic visit by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi. There was a busy schedule with many events held across a few days to make the most of the occasion.
President Herzog Hosts the President of Somaliland on His First State Visit to Israel
On June 14, 2026, President Isaac Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog hosted President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi of the Republic of Somaliland and First Lady Fardowsa Mohamed Roble on their first-ever visit to Israel.
The President and First Lady of Somaliland were received with an official welcome ceremony at the President’s Residence, together with their senior delegation accompanying the visit. The two Presidents then held a private meeting and delivered statements to the media. President Herzog and the First Lady then hosted the President and First Lady of Somaliland and their delegation for an official state luncheon at the President’s Residence
President Isaac Herzog: “We both face the threat of radical extremism. We both seek security and stability in the region and in the Horn of Africa. We both see the importance of protecting maritime freedom.”
President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi: “I stand here with the greetings, the thanks, the appreciation of six million Somaliland Muslims.”
*The Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar met with the President of Somaliland Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jerusalem*
Somaliland is the 8th county to open an Embassy in Jerusalem and is important as it is a Muslim nation.
Previously, on May 18, 2026, President Isaac Herzog formally received the diplomatic credentials of the first-ever Ambassador of Somaliland to Israel, Dr. Mohamed Hagi,
Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland in 1960, and again, after 35 years of independence and sovereignty, Israel again became the first country that recognized Somaliland.
The meeting was opened with statements to the media by the Minister and President.
*Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar revealed behind the scenes relations with Somaliland: "This is our second meeting in this room. We met here discretely last October. I will always be proud of the privilege I had to write, with you and your people, the first pages in the story of the Israel-Somaliland relationship. I am certain this partnership will continue to grow stronger for the benefit of both our nations.*
Minister of Foreign Affairs Sa'ar's full statement:
“It's an honor to welcome my dear friend, the President of Somaliland, to Jerusalem.
Mr. President, this is our second meeting in this room. We met here discretely last October, but the media didn’t know at the time. So we’re revealing that now.
Today, you're here on a historic State Visit as the President of Somaliland - six months after we established relations that continue to deepen and strengthen.
I am proud of the role I had in establishing these ties - through the dialogue that took place during 2025 with you, Mr. President - and with your distinguished team.
In those talks, we found a mutual desire for a relationship based on respect, friendship, and cooperation for the benefit of both nations.
I also want to thank you for hosting me in Hargeisa in January.
During that visit, I felt the warmth and hospitality shown by you, your team, and the people of Somaliland.
Along the roads from the Presidential Palace to the airport , I saw with my own eyes the feelings of the people of Somaliland toward Israel.
Mr. President,
Thank you for your historic decision to open the Embassy of Somaliland here in Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the Jewish people.
We deeply appreciate Somaliland becoming the eighth country to take this important step.
I believe more countries will follow suit in the near future.
President Trump made a bold decision when he recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moved the U.S. Embassy here in 2018.
We are grateful that Somaliland has chosen to walk the same path of truth, friendship, and moral clarity.
Mr. President, there are indeed challenges in building the relationship between Israel and Somaliland.
Unfortunately, there are many trying to undermine it. They will not be successful.
But both of us are determined to continue advancing this partnership.
No one will decide for Israel - and no one will decide for Somaliland - who we conduct diplomatic relations with.
The great strength of this relationship is that it exists not only between governments.
It's a friendship between peoples.
It exists in the hearts of the peoples.
Mr. President, I am convinced that during your visit, you too will feel the deep feelings of our people.
I will always be proud of the privilege I had to write, with you and your people, the first pages in the story of the Israel-Somaliland relationship.
I am certain this partnership will continue to grow stronger for the benefit of both our nations.
On Tuesday, 16 June 2026, at 17:30, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, visited the Knesset.with a senior delegation. They were greeted by an official welcome ceremony in the Weil Courtyard and the President signed the Knesset guestbook in the Chaggall State Hall.
President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Received Friends of Zion Award in Jerusalem
Following the Knesset visit, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, received the Friends of Zion Award at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem.
The ceremony was attended by diplomats, business leaders, Christian leaders, and distinguished guests from Israel and abroad
It was presented by Dr. Mike Evans, Founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Center, in recognition of the opening of Somaliland’s Embassy in Jerusalem and Somaliland’s burgeoning friendship for the State of Israel.
This comes out of an appreciation for Israel being the first country and UN member state to officially recognise the Republic of Somaliland as a sovereign and independent country. Evans was keen to stress that he wants other countries, especially America to follow suit.
“I intend to speak with the U.S. President Donald Trump about the importance of formal American recognition of Somaliland,” he said.
In front of a room filled with diplomats, business leaders, and distinguished guests from Israel and around the world.
In a heartfelt speech, President Abdillahi expressed his appreciation for the honor:
“It is a great honor to receive the Friends of Zion Award. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, which reflects the growing friendship and strengthening ties between Somaliland and Israel. We remain committed to deepening the relationship between our peoples and building a future founded on cooperation, mutual respect, and friendship. I thank Dr. Mike Evans and Friends of Zion for this distinguished honor.”
Dr. Mike Evans praised President Abdillahi’s leadership and commitment to advancing relations with Israel, comparing Israel’s place in the Middle East to Somaliland's place in Afric calling Somaliland the Israel of Africa.
“At a time when Israel faces significant security and diplomatic challenges, genuine friendship carries special meaning. President Abdillahi has demonstrated leadership, courage, and vision in strengthening ties with Israel and fostering closer relations between our peoples. The opening of an embassy in Jerusalem sends a powerful message of friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation.On behalf of millions of Friends of Zion supporters worldwide, we are proud to present President Abdillahi with this award and recognize his commitment to the historic and enduring relationship between the Jewish people and the State of Israel.”
Representing the State of Israel was the chief of Protocol Ambassador Gil Haskel.
On Wednesday, June 17, at the Save a Child’s Heart Center, Holon, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, had a special visit to 'Save a Child’s Heart'. There the President met children from Somaliland currently receiving life-saving cardiac treatment in Israel. *For more than two decades, long before Israel’s historic recognition of Somaliland, Save a Child’s Heart has provided life-saving care to dozens of children from Somaliland.
Following this, the delegation went to the Dan Tel Aviv Hotel to attend the first Israel–Somaliland Business Forum. It was attended by H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, President of the Republic of Somaliland and his senior delegation. The forum featured remarks by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi and Mr. Eden Bar Tal, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs*, and brought together senior officials, investors, and company representatives.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the President of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi and his delegation on this historic visit to the State of Israel. May it take the friendship and collaboration between the two countries to new levels
Photos credit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jerusalem Silvia G. Golan
Photos credit at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem Sharon Altshul / Roy Yehuda / David Wiseman /
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Embassy of Italy - 80 Anniversario della Repubblica Italiana (1946 - 2026) Dan Hotel, Tel Aviv
On Tuesday evening, the 2nd of June 2026, the Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Luca and Mrs. Mariachiara Ferrari hosted a lavish reception at the Dan Hotel, Tel Aviv, in honour of Italy's 80th anniversary of being a Republic.
Italy officially became a republic on the 2nd of June 1946, following a historic constitutional referendum where the Italian people voted to abolish the monarchy.
Outside Tel Aviv's iconic Dan Hotel on a red carpet, guests were mesmerized by two of Alfa Romeo's latest models that were on display.
Members of the Carabinieri were ceremonially dressed in their striking uniforms dating back to the Napoleonic era in dark coloured palettes and hats with feathers. The Carabinieri are one of Italy's principal national law enforcement agencies, functioning as both a civilian police force and a branch of the Italian Armed Forces.
The stage and tables in the banquet room were decorated with flowers denoting Italy's national colours.
In the hotel's lobby there were two exhibitions, one exhibition of photos and logos by Alfa Romeo and the other exhibition by Stream Yachts who have 11 models of yachts available in Israel (with branches in Athens, Corfu, Gibraltar and Antibes). Dr. Yafit Bitton, a Marine Geomorphologist, is their representative in Israel acting on behalf of Mangusta.
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Federico Castelli, the Embassy's Chief of Staff warmly welcomed everyone present which was followed by the enthusiastic singing of Italy's national anthem, Fratelli d'Italia (Brothers of Italy) and Israel's Hatikva.
The Ambassador of Italy address was eloquent. The Italian Republic turns 80, what President Mattarella described as a watershed moment in our national history. Under the Republic, Italy has thrived becoming a robust democracy, a prosperous economy, the second manufacturing member of the E.U.and the fifth worldwide, a member of NATO, the G7 and the G20. In 1957 with the Treaty of Rome, Italy together with France, Germany and Benelux founded the European Union. Eighty years ago, today, women went to the polls for the first time and with that vote proudly took their place in Italy's democratic life. In 1948, that vote paved the way for the adoption of the Italian constitution which is founded on democracy, human dignity, freedom, social justice and the rule of law. The Italian Republic and the State of Israel are two young nations, almost equal in age and heirs to ancient civilizations, grounded in common Judeo - Christian roots. Due to this bond Italy has underdstood the historical vocation of the State of Israel to be the national home of the Jewish people where they could live and prosper in safety after centuries of persecutions culminating in the Holocaust. Since its establishment, Israel has lived under the constant threat posed by its enemies. Hamas' genocidal massacare on the 7th of October and the wars with Iran and Hezbollah testify that today after 78 years, Isael continues to face threats to its very existence. Italy has always and unequivocally stood by Israel and its security needs. Nonetheless, we cannot disregard that war, violence and death have shaken consequences causing immeasurable sorrow and led to question the validity of certain ethical convictions. Cardinal Pizzaballa recently remarked, that we must resist falling into the spiral of hatred normalizing brutality, it poisons the public debate, legitimizes cruelty and dehumaizes society. Extremetism is never the proper answer to extreme violence. Values that define our democracies, founded, as expressed in 1689, by the philosopher John Locke on liberalism and the rule of law not the rule by law. The Italian Republic will never tolerate antisemitsm and any form of hatred, discrimination and violence against Jewish communities, never again. The Ambassdor expressed the aforemmentioned statement in Italian. I would like to conclude with a message of hope. Last year on this occassion I called for the immediate release of all the hostages and today the hostages are back, our prayers were not in vain. Thank you for your presnce here tonight, thanks to our sponsors as without their support we could not have organized today's reception. My gratitude to all my staff under the guidance of First Secretary, Federico Castelli for organizing such an extraordinary event.
A visual message, on screen was shown where Israel's 11th President, Issac Herzog expressed his blessings and congratulations, stating that today two democracies with close ties, celebrate Italy's 80th anniversary as a Republic. Recalling his previous visits to Rome and his interaction with Rome's historic Jewish community dating back to 2 200 years, 200 years before Jesus Christ. The drastic rise of antisemitism in Italy is worrying. Italy's President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Georgia Meloni are good friends of mine and I believe that Italy and Israel can work concomitantly together towards creating greater tolerance and in combating the anti semitic sentiment that has deeply penetrated Italy.
The State of Israel was represented by Deputy Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Sharren Haskel The connection between Israel and Italy is more than diplomatic, it is a profound alliance rooted in shared history, ancient culture and a deep mutual affection between our peoples. We remember with gratitude the heroic volunteers of the Jewish brigade who fought alongside Italian partisans to liberate Italy from Nazi - Fascist rule. In January 1949, a newborn Italy became one of the first nations to recognize the fledgling State of Israel. Our nations have built a thriving partnership across commerce, science and culture. The Israeli public holds a deep and genuine love for Italy - its rich history, its beautiful language and its warm people. The deep bond is anchored in 77 years of formal diplomacy and a robust government to government framework from our doctors working hand in hand during the Covid pandemic to Italian firefighting aircraft helping us combat the devastating fires in the Jerusalem hills last year. Following the atrocities of the 7th of October, Italy stood by Israel. As we navigate these challenging times, we look to Italy to continue standing firmly with us. Israel is fighting a war forced on us by threats of global terror that seek to tear down the liberal values and democratic ideals that form the bedrock of Israeli and Italian society. We must look ahead and work tirelessly to restore our exceptional bilateral relations to their full historic strength across political, economic and cultural spheres, particularly in the vital areas of security and technological innovation. We have watched with great concern a rising tide of anti - Israel incidents that threaten to chip away at the close bond between our societies. More alarming is the global surge in antisemitism, an ancient hatred that has not spared Italy or its historic Jewish communities. We appreciate Italy's ongoing efforts to combat this scourge. Thank you for hosting this beautiful evening and for your dedicated leadership in fighting in strengthening the bridge between Rome and Jerusalem. May our deep friendship continue to grow from strength to strength, anchored in truth, resilience and our shared democratic future.
A performance by the Israeli Opera's two sopranos, Primadonnas Yael Levita and Veronica Odintsov accompanied by pianist Rafael Skorka, sang an aria by Donizetti and another two arias by Puccini which included an aria from La Boheme.
After the performance, guests were invited to partake of a lavish and overwhelmingly large buffet which consisted of 5 stations Roast beef entrecote and mashed potatoes, roast brisket, chicken breast accompanied by baby potatoes, ravioli with a red wine and artichoke sauce, baked fish fillet accompanied by zucchini, beans and broccoli, spaghetti with Arrabiata sauce and a large table of antipasti including anchovies, salads, canopies filled with chopped liver and jam, baked pumpkin and melanzani. Desserts were sumptuous and scrumptious with a large choice of chocolate, coffee, pear and chocolate and raspberry mousse, malabiye, tiramisu, apricot pie, tapioca pudding, black forest cake and a seperate station serving creme ouzo, Japanese lime, strawberry coulis, sweet cake crumbs and mint sauce.
Ambassadors, Diplomats, members of the Italian Jewish community living in Israel, members of the business community, academics, representatives from various cultural organizations; Mr. Gil Haskell, Israel's Chief of State Protocol, Mr. Amit Zarouk, an advisor to the President of Israel, Ms.Keren Cohen - Gat, Foreign Affairs Advisor Deputy MFA; Dr. Cinzia Klein, Delegate of the Accademia Italiana della Cucina in Israel, Ms. Emanuela Di Capna from the Italian Trade Agency in Tel Aviv; Dr. Roberto Della Rocca, Israel - Italy Chamber of Commerce's , Major General (Res.) Amos Gilead, Bishop Giancinto- Boulos Marcuzzo, the Latin Patriarchate Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Jerusalem, the Governor General of the Bank of Israel, Prof. Amir Yaron, Mr. Ehud Olmert, a former Prime Minister of Israel, Prof. Dafne Guetta,a Professor of Physics and Head of Ariel University's International Unit Department, Mr. Renato Eran and Mrs. Sharon Jarach, CEO of JYA & C Accounting Firm, Dr. Cinzia Klein, Ms. Sabrina G. Fadlun, Delegate and Vice Delegate of the Italian Academy of Cuisine in Israel; Ms. Emanuela Di Capna from the Italian Trade Agency in Tel Aviv, Mr. Carlo Gross, Italy's Honorary Consul for Haifa and the North of Israel, Prof. Emanuele Dalla Torre, Professor of Non - Equilibrium Many - Body Physics at Bar-Ilan University, Ms. Shira Martin, a Senior Bureaucrat in Israeli Tax Authority Indirect Taxes Diplomatic Unit's Collection and Enforcement Department, Mr.Nathan Allalouf, Allalouf Group President.( Shipping ), Mr. Emanuel Shapira Rabbanian, Dan Hotels LTD Director of Delegations, Mr. Yehuda Haviv, Israel Tax Authority's Indirect Taxes Sr. Director, Diplomatic Unit's Collection and Enforcement Department, Mr. Dotan Smith, the population and Immigration Authority's Head of the Assisted Voluntary Return Division, Mr.Claudio Coldebella, General Manager Maccabi Tel AvivBasketballClub , Mr. Nadav Tamir, the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation's Head of International Relations, Mrs. Anat Sar, an Israeli fashion designer and proprietor of Kiki Dress to Dress, Mr. Ariel Goldstein, Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister of Israel ; Mr. Maor Ifrah, an Advisor to the Foreign Ministry's Director Generaland more...
A board acknowledging the evening's sponsors was displayed namely Intimissimi, Samelet, Sparke, ELNET (European Leadership Network), Stream Yachts, Ferrero, Illy, ERCO and Zanetti.
Upon departure guests were treated to a generous gift package, they had a choice of two packages i.e. a bag of chocolates sponsored by Ferrero which included Tic Tac, Raffaello, Ferrero Rocher, Nutella and Kinder or a bag containing Illy Coffee.
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Photos Silvia G. Golan
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