-
Home
- Diplomatic Events
Diplomatic Events
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan
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/
https://www.facebook.com/jewishimpact#
https://www.instagram.com/jewishimpact/
In the photo, from right: Sonia Gomes de Mesquita, Shino Zoaretz, Michael Mann.
Credit: Ben Reizer, Center for Jewish Impact.
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan and David Wiseman
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 /
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan & Instagram SilviaGolan
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
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 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.
Diplomacy.co.il and www.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan & Instagram SilviaGolan
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan & Steven Aiello
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
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan & Instagram SilviaGolan
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On Thursday afternoon, the 28th of May 2026, on the occasion of Paraguay's 215th anniversary of independence, the Ambassador of the Republic of Paraguay to Israel, H.E. Mr Alejandro and Mrs. Tali Cymerman hosted a reception in the foyer of the Embassy's Brosh Tower in Har Hotzvim, Jerusalem.
Upon entering the lobby, an impressive exhibition of ballpoint drawings by two Paraguayan artists, Juan Crespo and Richart Peralta welcomed the guests. Each work is born from direct observation portraying the region's fauna and flora namely armadillos, giant anteaters, turtles and deer. The Nivade, the name denoting human beings are one of the largest indigenous peoples of Para - guayan Chaco, having a profound bond with their natural environment. The forest, animals and plants are the axis of their identity and spirituality which is reflected in their art.
David Karlsberg dressed in a colourful ethnic Paraguayan shirt entertained guests with his rendition on the Paraguayan harp.
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Anthony Raphael Escoboza, CEO and founder of Escomedia group based in Herzliya and Miami, welcomed all guests and mentioned the men and women who fought and died valiantly for Paraguay's hard earned independence. He stated that the two nations are committed to strengthening friendship and common interests.
The singing of Paraguay and Israel's national anthems followed.
The Ambassador of Paraguay, H.E. Mr. Alejandro Rubin Cymerman address began by him highlighting the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's national independence and underscoring the particularly close relationship between Paraguay and Israel. The Ambassador mentioned that Paraguay's independence began on the night of the 14th of May 1811 and was consolidated in the early hours of the 15th of May. This was a decision marking a people's freedom thus taking their destiny into their own hands with the intention to live in dignity as a sovereign nation. Coincidentally, Israel's independence from Britain's mandate in 1948, also came into existence on the same date at midnight, between the 14th and the15th of May. This year, Paraguayan independence coincided with "Jerusalem Day". Paraguay is in Jerusalem, not only because it believes in Israel, but because it honours its word, understanding that true friendship is demonstrated through action alone. The Ambassador noted that over the past year, the relationship between Paraguay and Israel has strengthened significantly with high level visits, ongoing political dialogue, new agreements, concrete cooperation and an increasing bilateral agenda. He expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the decision to name a space in Jerusalem after the Republic of Paraguay, not by simply bestowing a name but leaving a mark of friendship in a city with a long history and memory. He stated that today Paraguay is a country with political and economic stability, abundant energy and productive capacity providing attractive conditions for investment. Israel is beginning to discover Paraguay as a serious,stable and competitive platform for growth. He highlighted the strong growth of Paraguayan beef present in Israel's market recalling that Paraguay exported an average of $110 million worth of beef annually, this figure doubled in 2025. If the current trend continues, exports could exceed $300 million this year. He thanked Israeli importers, distributors, vendors and business people who have placed their trust in his country and helped to improve its products in the Israeli market place. Paraguay is not only about beef, sectors such as food, energy, water, applied technology, logistics, manufacturing, services and investment are available for investors as Paraguay is an open and stable country strategically located in the heart of South America. The Ambassador concluded his address with a message of commitment to freedom and friendship between Paraguay and Israel to be built on a common future based on facts, trust and cooperation.
The State of Israel was represented by Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gidon Sa'ar who spoke without notes. Guests had the feeling that he was conversing with each one individually. He started by mentioning two members of Israel's Knesset, Mr. Evgeny Sofa, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset and Mr. Boaz Toporovsky, who resigned yesterday, formerly serving as the coalition whip in the incumbent government. The Minister said that Paraguay's decision to move its Embassy to Jerusalem made it easy for him. Last year I visited Paraguay and encouraged investors to think about investing in Paraguay due to its stability which is reflected through its friendship with Israel. Last week I visited the Czech Republic where its stability is reflected through its friendship with Israel. On Saturday night I depart for Fiji, also a stable country reflected in its relationship with Israel. Paraguay was the 6th Embassy to open in Jerusalem and Fiji, being the 7th country. Next month, Somaliland will be the 8th county to open an Embassy in Jerusalem and is important as it is a Musim nation. On the 2nd of December 2025, joy was reflected in Hargeisa, Somaliland's capital, when Israel and Somaliland signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition. It is an important move as it reflects a positive change in a challenging and turbulent time. Despite all odds, Israel continues to open Embassies and representative offices and visa versa. Regarding the forthcoming World Cup Soccer Games opening on the 11th of June 2026, I will continue to support Argentina (my father was born in Argentina) and wish Paraguay great success in their endeavours. Soon Israel and Paraguay will sign a cyber agreement and our intention is not only to fortify relations between governments but also between peoples.
A toast in Paraguay and Israel's honour followed enjoyed by the Ambassador and the Foreign Minister.
A sumptuous, healthy and colorful buffet consisting of fresh garden salads, a selection of artisanal bread, stuffed vine leaves, bourekas with various fillings, Tuniasian fish canopies and a cheese platter as well as a selection of white and red wine was served.
Present among the Meso and South American Ambassadors, Diplomats, State Officials, Businessman, were Mr. Adir Schwarz, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, Ms. Ruth Amit - Fogel, Paraguay's Consul Honoraria in Israel , Ms. Monica Mercedes Sartorio Roche, Paraguay's Honorary Consul in Israel, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director for the Israel - Latin Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Fine Akosita Ditoka, Head of Diplomacy, Strategic Affairs and Protocol of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, Mr. Maor Ifrah, Advisor to the Director General of the Israel's Foreign Ministry, Ms. Annika Briegert, Executive Assistant to the President of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, Dr. Mike Evans, Founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Centre, Mr. Daniel Voiczek, CEO of the Friends of Zion Museum in Jerusalem, Mr. Itai Bartov, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's Chief of Staff for Foreign Policy, Mr. Yinam Cohen, the Foreign Ministry Director of Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Amik Ofek, the Foreign Ministry's Deputy Director General and Head of the Department for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Zeev Harel, a former Israeli Ambassador to Paraguay, Mr. Gabriel Berenstein, Elbit Systems Senior Director of Regional Marketing and Business Development, Mr. Jose Aronson, Director of Marketing and Business Development for Israel Aerospace Industries ELTA Group and Mr. Tony Raichler, Head of the Knesset's International Affairs Department for Latin America.
Diplomacy.co.il and www.diariojudio.com congratulates the Ambassador of Paraguay to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Alejandro and Mrs. Rubin Cymerman , the Embassy staff and the people of Paraguay , on Paraguay's 215th anniversary of national independence and expresses its appreciation for a memorable afternoon of joy and conviviality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan & Instagram SilviaGolan
