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- Written by Antoanet (Tony) Levy
On February 27, 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Israel hosted an official reception at the Dan Hotel in Tel Aviv to celebrate Bulgaria’s National Day, March 3rd, marking 147 years since the country’s liberation from Ottoman rule. The event was moderated by Mr. Moni Leon Bar, Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in Israel, who played a key role in supporting the Embassy in organizing the event.
Ambassador Gergova’s Speech: A Strong Message of Solidarity and Historical Reflection
H.E. Slavena Gergova, Bulgaria’s Ambassador to Israel, delivered a powerful speech honoring Bulgaria’s struggle for freedom and drawing historical parallels between Bulgaria’s past and Israel’s present challenges. She expressed deep condolences for the victims of the October 7th terrorist attacks and called for the immediate and full implementation of all phases of the hostage deal, emphasizing the importance of securing the return of all abducted individuals.
Ambassador Gergova also reaffirmed Bulgaria’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that negotiations for the end of the Russian war in Ukraine must include the country itself and the European Union.
Marking the 35th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Israel, she highlighted the special bond between the two nations. She recalled Bulgaria’s heroic rescue of its more than 48,000 Jews during World War II, stressing the importance of preserving Holocaust memory and combating modern antisemitism. Furthermore, she underlined Bulgaria’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Israel across multiple sectors, including tourism, trade, labor, investments, IT, and innovation.
Minister Haim Katz: Strengthening Bilateral Ties Amid Global Challenges
Speaking on behalf of the Israeli government, Minister of Tourism Haim Katz expressed gratitude for Bulgaria’s consistent support, especially in the wake of recent tragic events. He acknowledged the deep historical connection between the two nations, highlighting Bulgaria’s actions to protect its Jewish population during World War II.
Minister Katz addressed the current challenges facing Israel, including ongoing terrorist attacks and rising global antisemitism. He thanked Bulgaria for its commitment to the security of the Jewish community and Israeli tourists visiting Bulgaria. He also praised Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen Agreement and its expected entry into the OECD, expressing hope that these developments would further strengthen its economy.
Regarding tourism, Minister Katz noted that Bulgaria remains a popular destination for Israeli travelers, offering diverse attractions year-round. He encouraged greater tourism exchange, hoping to see more Bulgarian visitors in Israel.
President Isaac Herzog: Bulgaria chose to stand courageously against the dangerous suspension of morality
The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, congratulated Bulgarian officials and guests at the reception with a heartfelt video message highlighting the special bond between the two countries. He acknowledged Bulgaria’s long standing support for Israel and the Jewish people throughout history, particularly following the events of October 7th. He emphasized Israel's desire to facilitate high-level visits in 2025, when the two countries will celebrate the 35th anniversary of their diplomatic restoration.
Distinguished guests expressed their gratitude to Bulgaria for its clear stance in support of Israel and the fight against terrorism and highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two nations, rooted in historical moments such as Bulgaria’s rescue of its Jewish population during World War II. Among the official guests were representatives of the Israeli Presidency office, the Israeli government and institutions, representatives of the diplomatic corps – many ambassadors, military attaches, diplomats, representatives of the Israeli civil society and Israeli business, as well as the leaders of the Bulgarian Jewish organizations and prominent members of the Bulgarian Jewish community in Israel.
The evening featured a special musical performance by Mr. Arik Davidov, a Bulgarian Jew, world-renowned trumpet virtuoso, and descendant of three generations of trumpet players. His rendition of the Bulgarian and Israeli national anthems symbolized the strong and enduring friendship between the two nations.
The participant was given a real culinary journey, prepared by the chiefs of the Dan Hotel, which included delicacies of Bulgarian and international cuisine, which became a unique gastronomic delight.
The reception underscored the deep and enduring partnership between Bulgaria and Israel, built on shared democratic values, historical solidarity, and a steadfast commitment to enhanced cooperation. In the current challenging global context, the diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries continue to strengthen, fostering future collaboration and deeper connections.
This year’s commemoration of March 3rd was not only a tribute to Bulgaria’s past but also a powerful message of solidarity and empathy for the victims of terrorism. It served as a reminder that freedom is the highest value—one that nations must defend, regardless of time or place.
Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates H.E. Ms. Slavena Gergova and the Embassy staff on the 147 Bulgaria’s Liberation Day
Written by Mrs. Antoanet (Tony) Levy – External Relations & Innovation, HIT Holon Institute of Technology, PO
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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On Wednesday, 19 February 2025, the Head of Mission of the Embassy of Kosovo to the State of Israel, Ms. Ines Demiri hosted a reception in honor of her country's 17th anniversary of independence at the Hilton, Tel Aviv.
Mr. Denis Karlinskiy, the Head of Mission's P.A. was Master of Ceremonies, warmly welcomed all present and said that the significance in Jewish Gematria of Kosovo's 17 years of independence is Good. Kosovo reaffirms its commitment towards an enduring partnership with Israel.
The playing of the two national anthems of Kosovo and Israel was lead by Maestro Kastriot Xhon Marku,a renowned Kosovon violinist who together with his wife, Mrs. Pagarusha Roleil Marku, a soprano and interpreter of traditional Albanian folk songs arrived especially from London for the event.
Head of Mission, Ms. Ines Demiri extended her welcome and stated that Kosovo is a testament of resilience of the people who have shaped it for what it is today. We continue to build a strong democracy striving towards membership of the United Nations, Nato and the European Union. Today Kosovo has become a nation that innovates and contributes towards the world. It has earned gold medals in international sport competitions and presently has a growth rate of 4%. Kosovo is a member of many international organizations and is acknowledged by 117 countries. Four years ago Israel recognized Kosovo's independence and I have been working tirelessly towards reaching and intensifying relations between our two countries. The bond between Kosovo and Israel is deeply symbolic and we stand in full solidarity with Israel in the knowledge that peace will be achieved and the remaining hostages will safely be reunited with their families. She welcomed the two Kosovon musicians from London and expressed her thanks and gratitude to Kosovo's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Roy Roznek.
Representing the government of the State of Israel was H.E. Mr. Ofir Sofer, Minister of Aliya and Integration. He expressed his congratulations on Kosovo's 17 years of independence and 4 years of bilateral relations with Israel, which is the only European country with an Embassy in Jerusalem. Last year we did not celebrate Kosovo's independence due to the war. He also added his appreciation to Kosovo's Prime Minister and other Cabinet Ministers who showed solidarity with Israel after the 7th of October attack. Recently a Visa Waiver agreement between Israel and Kosovo was actualized which will be able to facilitate tourism to and from both countries. A delegation of Kosovan businessmen and investors was hosted by Kosovo's Honorary Consul and in January 2025 the Embassy of Kosovo organized a commemorative ceremony for International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
Mr. Erez Malul, a member of Knesset and Head of the parliamentary Israel Kosovo Friendship Committee spoke enthusiastically about hosting a Kosovan friendship group in the Knesset led by Mr. Abdullah Hoti. During the meetings there was a strong sense of solidarity and closeness and this year in the Knesset a law was promulgated allowing Kosovan citizens to enter Israel without a visa.
The Head of Mission, the Minister and Member of Knesset cut a celebratory cake which was coated in turquoise.
A concert primarily of Albanian folk songs was played by Maestro Marku who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Pagarusha Marku. Their music was lively and buoyant and greatly enjoyed by the audience.
A certificate from Keren Kayemet Israel was presented to the Head of Mission by Prof. Yehuda Haimowitz as the Embassy planted 17 trees coinciding with 17 years of independence as well as another tree in the name of Ms. Ines Demiri which is a total of 18 trees, in Gematria the number 18 symbolizes Chai or Life.
A photographic exhibition by Ella Waldman with the themes of Kosovo and Jerusalem was also on display. A lavish buffet of raw fish - sashimi and steamed buns with meat , salads, fresh fruit and deserts was served in an adjoining room.
Guests who were present included distinguished ambassadors, state officials, Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, Ambassador Peleg Lewi, Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Israeli Minister of Tourism, Ambassador Dan Oryan, the Foreign Ministry's Director of Civic Diplomacy, Mr. Yuval Fuchs, the Foreign Ministry's Deputy Director General and Head of Eurasia and the Western Balkans Division, Mr. Roy Reznik, Honorary Consul of Kosovo in Israel, Mr. Eric Rubin, Maccabi World Union's Global Ambassador, Mrs. Mika Amram, Director of Global Patient Services at Sheba Tel Hashomer hospital, Mrs. Tamara Hatav, Sheba Tel Hashomer hospital's Director of Global Relations and Partnerships, Mr. Chen Filipowicz who represented the Katowice Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Ilan Pomeranc whose family own a hotel chain in the U.S. called Sixty Collective with operations in New York, Miami and Los Angeles, Prof. Yehuda Haimowitz who is an international consultant and contractor and teaches Management at Haifa University and Ms. Katie Schiff, Corporate Account Manager at the Hilton in Tel Aviv.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates Kosovo's Head of Mission, Ms. Ines Demiri on Kosovo's 17 years of independence and thanks her and the Embassy staff for a memorable evening.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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On Tuesday evening, 4 February 2025 at the Carlton in Tel Aviv, the Honorary Consuls of El Salvador in Israel, Mr. Yossi Abadi and Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld hosted a cocktail reception welcoming El Salvador's newly appointed Ambassador to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Hector Enrique Celarie Landaverde.
The evening's Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Raphael Escoboza welcomed everyone present and began by stating that it is an honour to gather here tonight in this beautiful venue to welcome His Excellency, the new El Salvadoran Ambassador to Israel, H.E. Mr. Celarie Landaverde. This evening celebrated friendship, diplomacy and the strong ties between our nations. Under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador has undergone a remarkable transformation, strengthening its economy, enhancing security and embracing innovation. His forward thinking governance has positioned the country as a rising global power establishing partnerships with key actors in the international agenda.
Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld, Honorary Consul of El Salvador in Israel was the first speaker of the evening. His address was brief, saying that El Salvador has become safe, innovative, has many business opportunities and concluded by stating that he strongly hopes that Israel will soon reopen an Embassy in El Salvador.
He was followed by El Salvador's second Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Yossi Abadi who "paralyzed" the guests with his eloquence and finesse by saying that it is truly wonderful to see all of you here this evening and expressing the fact that the event is symbolic of the deep friendship between two nations - small in size but immense in heart. He warmly welcomed H.E. Mr. Celarie Landaverde "home" who will elevate El Salvador and Israel's diplomatic relationship to new heights. The strength of a nation is no longer defined by the size of its army but a country's greatness is defined by its ideas, values and technological advancements in which Israel and El Salvador have much in common. El Salvador experienced one of its most historic transformations in years from being the most violent country by having the murder capital of the world to becoming the safest country in the Western Hemisphere. El Salvador captured global attention a few years ago by electing a young president in jeans and a baseball cap. It then shocked the world by becoming the first nation to adopt Bitcoin. Today it has become an example of how to build functional institutions, hospitals, and libraries that are a source of national pride. Within two years President Bukele arrested 80 000 terrorists and criminals transforming El Salvador. It took him twelve months to build the largest and most advanced prison in Latin America. He recently offered President Trump the opportunity to outsource part of the U.S. prison system. In the last elections he won with more than 85% of the vote and his party won 54 out of 60 seats in the National Congress without silencing opposition and imprisoning a single journalist. On the El Salvadorian flag the emblem includes three words i.e. God, Union and Liberty being the key to Israel's success as they are to El Salvador's transformation. The country has also recently become a global leader in surf tourism and in 2025 a predicted 4.3 million visitors are due to arrive. It also has become a tax haven and foreign investment has exponentially increased. In the past year I have donated almost 1000 food and supply packages to communities affected by natural disasters as well as dozens of tablets to the National Library and provided scholarships to university students. He concluded by thanking the Ambassador for "keeping the Embassy strong in Israel" and welcoming him back to the Holy Land.
A short movie about El Salvador was shown "wetting the appetites" of everyone present as it exposed the beauty of El Salvador inspiring all to visit.
H.E. Mr. Hector Enrique Celarie Landaverde who served previously as Ambassdor in Israel as well as in Trinidad and Tobago, New York and in The Netherlands started his remards by extending warm greetings on behalf of President Bukele, Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill T. and the Salvadorian people inclding his wife Rosaline. Over the decades our two nations have worked together on many fronts inclusing technology, agriculture, education and cultural exchange which have strengthened not only diplomatic ties but also the development of our respective societies. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the two Honorary Consuls of El Salvador in Israel for organzining this welcoming event in my honour. El Salvador has embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation under the leadership of Presidntb Bukele especially in the areas of security, law and order, economic growth and modernization. The implementation of robust security policies have led to a dramatic decrease in crime rates, restoring peace to communities. After five years we are a completely different country of short distances, perfect waves for surfing, memorable sunsets on the beach or in the mountains with a vast cultural heriatge, the warmth of our people and our gastronomy. By embracing cutting - edge technologies such as blockchain, El Salvador is positioning itself as a global pioneer in finacial inclusion and economic diversification. We look forward to Israel as a key partner in accelarating our progress and aspire to deepen our collaboration in technology transfer, water management and sustainable agriculture. We envision a future where our partnership not only benefits both nations but also serves as a model of international cooperation for sustainable growth. in conclusion he thanked all for their presence and to the Honorary Consuls for organizing this special event.
Mr. Yoram Ray Naor, Consul General of Belize, a senior member of the Ambassdors Club and the Latin American - Israel Chamber of Commerce together with Mr. Ami H. Orkaby, Honorary Consul of Korea and Dean of the Consular Corps presented the Ambassador and his wife with an impressive bouqet of flowers and mentioned a few words of praise.
The event was graced by the presence of Ms. Maya Karmely Sommer, Director of the Mexico and Central America department Israel MFA, Ms.Ruth Amit - Fogel, Honorary Consul of Paraguay, Mr. Stanley Morais, El Al's Dircetor of International Affairs, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Gabriel Hayon, Chaiman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Orel Levy, a surfboard artist who includes Jewish themes in his art and works both in Israel and in California, Mr. Yaron Bob, an artist who lives on the border with Gaza, transforming rockets of terror into expressions of peace, beauty and hope for the future and Dr. Beatriz Katz, Director of Gordon Academic College Iberian American Department.
Diplomacy.co.il expresses its thanks and gratitude to the the Ambassador of El Salvador, H.E. Mr. Hector and Mrs.Rosaline Celarie Landaverde, the two El Salvadorian Honorary Consuls, Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld and Mr. Yossi Abadi for an extraordinary evening of Salvadoran hospitality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of El Salvador, H.E. Mr. Héctor Enrique Celarié Landaverde
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Costa Rica H.E. Mr. Antonio Lopez Escarre
President Herzog receiving the credentials of Ambassador of Ecuador, H.E. Ms María Cristina Cevallos Calero
President Herzog receiving the credentials of Ambassador of Greece, H.E. Ms .Maria Solomou
President Isaac Herzog received on Wednesday , 5 February 2025, the diplomatic credentials of new ambassadors to Israel: Ambassador of El Salvador, Héctor Enrique Celarié Landaverde, Ambassador of Ecuador, María Cristina Cevallos Calero, Ambassador of Costa Rica, Antonio Ignacio López Escarré, and Ambassador of Greece, Maria Solomou.
In his meetings, the President stressed the imperative of returning the hostages, and noted the importance of the meeting last night between Prime Minister Netanyahu, and US President Trump.
He said: ““I want to say a few words regarding the very important and productive meeting between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu. It was a very important meeting. It is a beautiful expression of the unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel and Israel and the United States, and it's a beautiful expression of the deep commitment and affection of President Trump to the State of Israel and its well being and security.
“I think that the fact that both leaders discussed the hostage deal and the need to complete the deal, especially the commitment of President Trump to bringing all our hostages back home is a very important statement. We must do whatever we can to bring our hostages back home until the last one returns home. It is the most important topic in our national psyche, and I hope and pray we will see more and more hostages returning home as soon as possible.
“Their discussion was also very important as it relates to the further inclusion of Israel in the region. And I hope to be able to see many more Arab countries join the circle of peace with Israel in our region, making a historic change. This has to be coupled with the fact that we must block Iran and its terrible plans and its heinous activities through its proxies all throughout the region, against Israel and against Jews all over the world.
“I truly hope that the positive outcome of this very important meeting will be felt in our region and in Israel and in the world at large in the very near future.”
Photo credit: Ma'ayan Toaf (GPO)
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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On Thursday evening, 30 January 2025, H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the State of Israel hosted a reception in honour of her country's 32 anniversary of independence at the Dan, Tel Aviv.
Mr. Peter Karpo Prince, P.A. to the Ambassador, Master of Ceremonies, warmly welcomed everyone present followed by the Ambassador's speech.
H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova cordially greeted and welcomed all guests to the Slovak Republic's 32 year anniversary celebration which was declared on the 1st of January 1993 after peacefully splitting from Czechoslovakia which was shared with the present Czech Republic. On the eve of the declaration of independence, 93 countries recognized Slovakia statehood including Israel. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to IAI Israel Aerospace Industries . If ever Slovakia had to face hardships, it was nothing in comparison to the hardships Israel experienced during its War of Independence in 1948. She emotionally stated that nothing is more important than bringing each and every hostage home to their families.
Representing the State of Israel was H.E. Ms. May Golan, Minister of Social Equality and the Advancement of the Status of Women in Israel. The synergy between her and the Ambassador was palpable as she started her address by expressing her admiration for the Ambassador, finding her a source of inspiration. In these challenging times your presence here today is cherished. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to the Ambassador by thanking her for her support during the challenging times Israel is facing. She paid homage to Guy Khalifa, a dual Slovak - Israeli citizen who was murdered at the Nova festival. The Minister also mentioned that she looks forward to welcoming Slovakia leadership, hopefully in the not too distant future. She also wished Slovakia's Prime Minister, Mr. Robert Fico, who less than a year ago survived an assasination attempt, a speedy and complete recovery. Recently an Air Defence agreement was signed between the two countries, being the most important to date. She referred to the strong bond between Israel and Slovakia and made reference to Slovakia's large Jewish population preceding World War 11. In 2016 the Slovak Republic established a Holocaust Museum and in 2021 a governmental apology was made with reference to the Holocaust. Since bi - latreal relations were established, trade, technology, education and culture has thrived between the two countries. She made mention of the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem, established in 2021 under the directorship of Jabuk Urik. In conclusion, the Minister wished the Slovak Republic peace,stability and economic prosperity for the future.
On behalf of the International Book Illustration Fair under the auspices of Unesco held in Bratislava, the Ambassador awarded second prize to Israeli artist, Ms. Maya Shleifer as she was unable to attend the ceremony in 2023 due to restrictions as a result of the worldwide Covid pandemic.
Mr. Jan Bogdan,a cellist from Kosice, Slovakia and a student at the Buchmann Mehta School of Music in Tel Aviv played Bach's Suite number 1 prelude. He is currently preparing to compete in an international Cello competition in the People's Republic of China.
A large buffet was served in an adjoining hall, accompanied by an array of dishes from roasted assado, pierogi, sausages, fish, salads, deserts and seasonal fruits.
Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova and the Embassy staff on the 32nd anniversary of Slovak statehood and for their generous,gracious and warm hospitality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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