Diplomatic Events
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Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania's World Kiswahili Language Day Celebration

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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.
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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”.
https://www.jewish-impact.org/
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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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As a universal symbol of purity, beauty, and eternal life, the lotus bloom holds a profound place in Indian philosophy and culture. This festival invites the Israeli public to experience this iconic blossom—with an immersive environment that bridges the landscapes of Jerusalem and the spirit of the Silk Road.
A Symbol of Enduring Friendship
To mark the launch of this landmark festival, the Ambassador of India to Israel, H.E. Mr. J.P. Singh, presided over a special ceremonial planting at the gardens with CEO of Botanical Gardens, Mr. Tom Amit. The planting of this tree stands as a living testament to the deepening ties and enduring friendship between India and Israel, flourishing in the heart of Jerusalem’s greenest oasis.

Festival Highlights Include:
• Live Indian music and dance performances by ICCR Music and Dance Teachers, as well as Israeli artists.
• Immersive Experiences: Traditional sari dressing corners, henna tattoo stations, and lakeside yoga sessions.
• Culinary Delights: Authentic Indian food courts featuring flavors from across the subcontinent.
• Engagement: Creative workshops for all ages and a photography competition centered on the breathtaking lotus blooms.
The festival serves as a cultural bridge, offering a unique opportunity for the community to engage with India's diverse heritage in the heart of Jerusalem’s greenest oasis.
Event Details:
The festival continues throughout the following dates in July:
July 3–4
July 9–11
For further information: https://www.botanic.co.il/
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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
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