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- Written by Sima Lahat & Silvia Golan
On December 4th, 2014, the new Ambassador of Japan to Israel Mr. Shigeo Matsutomi and Mrs. Kaori Matsutomi offered a reception at their residence in Herzliya Pituach to celebrate the 81st Birthday. of His Majesty the Emperor (In Japan, the emperor is never referred to by his given name, but rather is referred to as "His Imperial Majesty the Emperor" which may be shortened to "His Imperial Majesty").
A lavish buffet dinner featuring Japanese dishes: Plates of delicious Sushi, delicious meats, vegetables, fruits, cakes, and even Kosher Food prepared for the religious Jews. The menu was accompanied by Sake, bear and a range of Liqueurs, alcoholic and other beverages. Sake has played a central role in Japanese life and culture for the past 2,000 years.
As we entered to the Ambassador's official residence, we were invited to participate at a Japanese tea ceremony. We loved the special taste of the Matcha Green Tea (a fine-ground, powdered, high-quality green tea).
The distinguished guest list included Dr. Yaacov Cohen - Former Israel Ambassador in Japan, Yehuda Meshi-Zahav, ZAKA Chairman (Disaster Victim Identification), Hezi Bezalel - One of the leading Israeli entrepreneurs operating in Africa, members of the diplomatic corps, business and commercial leaders, dignitaries of the Japanese community in Israel, Israeli political leaders and other "who's who" of the Israel social calendar.
The formal part of the event started with violinist playing the national anthems of both countries, followed by the speech of the Japanese Ambassador, welcoming the guests.
Ambassador Matsutomi thanked everyone, for participating in the celebration for the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor. He welcomed the honorable guests of Israel government: Minister Ya'ir Shamir - Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Director-Generals, Ambassadors and all distinguished guests and said the following:
"His Majesty, Emperor Akihito, will observe his 81st birthday this month. The Emperor today still continues to play his role as the unifying figure of our nation.
Since arrival at Israel on August, my wife Kaori and I have been enjoying both exciting work and everyday life in Israel.
The year 2014 has been a good year. We have witnessed many high level exchanges in both political and economic fields.
I wish to build upon those achievements and thoroughly follow up each, even to do homework, so as to make the bilateral ties even closer.
Also in the Cultural field, Japanese artists, from modern ballets (contemporary dance) to even Sumo wrestlers, charmed Israeli people.
This October, "Japan Cultural Week" in Jerusalem alone attracted more than 7,000 visitors. In Japan, the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra fascinated thousands of Japanese in November at its annual performances.
In both countries we have now a season of elections. Prime Minister Abe is asking for a general election to be scheduled on 14th next week to ask the Japanese public about his economic policy (Abenomics).
In Israel, needless to say, March 17th. I believe our bilateral ties will not be affected by political developments anyway.
I'm determined to do my best to promote our bilateral ties together with our Embassy staff. I ask your cooperation for that.
In conclusion, I wish to propose a toast to the continued good health of Their Majesties as well as each one of you present here, and to an even more fruitful friendship between our two countries."
After the Ambassador's speech, Mr. Ya'ir Shamir - Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, said the following:
"Your Excellency the Ambassador of Japan and Mrs. Kaori Matsutami, Distinguished Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Missions in Israel, Honorable Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.
I am pleased and honored to represent the Government and People of Israel at this joyous celebration of the 81th Birthday of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito.
This year, Israel and Japan are marking the 62nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. Japan was the first nation in Asia to establish formal relations with Israel, and Israel, in turn, was the first nation in the Middle East to establish diplomatic relations with Japan in 1952.
The bonds between our peoples extend beyond the founding of the State of Israel. Following the First World War, Japan took part in the in the San Remo Conference, in which the idea of self-determination for the Jewish people was formally approved. Years later, Vice Consul Chiune Sugihara saved the lives of thousands of Polish and Lithuanian Jews by providing them with exit visas to Kobe, Japan during World War Two, and today there are more than 40,000 descendants of these Jews living across the globe thanks Vice Consul Sugihara's courage.
Today, the special relationship between our peoples can be seen by the number of high-level visits between our governments. Notably, Prime Minister Netanyahu visited Japan in May, and together with Prime Minister Shinzō Abe released a joint statement celebrating the significant upgrading of bilateral relations between our countries.
Last June, Menachem Kidron, who serves as the Director of the Israel Space Agency in the Ministry of Science and Technology, also visited Japan. Mr. Kidron's meeting with his counterpart in the Japanese Government resulted in an agreement to strengthen the cooperation between our countries in research in the field of Space exploration.
In addition to two Japanese delegations that visited Israel last July, Israel was proud to welcome on separate visits Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Yoshitaka Shindō and Minister for Economy, Trade, and Industry Toshimitsu Motegi, whose visit culminated with the signing of an agreement of cooperation in industrial research and development.
And, speaking for myself, I was proud to have represented Israel in the prestigious Science and Technology in Society annual meeting in Kyoto last month.
This coming month, the annual political dialogue will take place in Tokyo, and Israel looks forward to continuing the ongoing fruitful cooperation that has developed between us.
Based on democratic values, hard work, and investments in education and research, Japan and Israel have both created strong and developed open societies for the benefit of all. In 2011, bilateral trade between our countries valued more than $1.7 billion, of which $1.1 billion was imported to Israel from Japan. Japanese businesses can be found throughout Israel, and I am especially pleased that companies like Sony, Hitachia, and Toshiba have Research and Development centers here.
Interest in Japanese culture is also taking hold throughout Israel. Across the country, thousands of students practice Judo and Karate, and many more study the Japanese language in High School and University. More and more Japanese books are being translated into Hebrew, and Sushi has become one of the most popular foods in Israel.
This interest in Japanese culture is also well illustrated by the success of Japanese Cultural week in Jerusalem just a few weeks ago. Organized by the embassy of Japan and in coordination with the City of Jerusalem and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this festival celebrated Japanese culture in Israel.
To the north in Haifa, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art stands as the only one of its kind in the Middle East. Israel is immensely proud of its partnerships with Japan, both cultural and economic, and looks forward to bettering relationships and building new ones in the years to come.
However, the value placed on friendship between two peoples is not only seen in times of joy and prosperity, but also in times of great tragedy and sadness. When the Fukishima Disaster struck Japan in March 2011, Israel was the only country to send a medical team of 70 personnel to the area that was most affected, as well as medical supplies and equipment donated to local Japanese hospitals. This vital aid helped Japan to respond, though in a modest way, to the disaster, and Israel was pleased to have done what it could to aid the Japanese people in this time of great trial.
Before I conclude, I do want to take a moment to mention the peace process in the Middle East. Along with the United States and the European Union, Japan one of the most important contributors to the cause of peace in the Middle East, and since 1992 has contributed $1.3 billion in projects aimed at breaking down the barriers in the way of peace. The flagship project is known as the Corridor for Peace and Prosperity, an agricultural-industrial park in Jericho, and there are many other civilian projects throughout the West Bank and Gaza.
It is also noteworthy that Japan helps to finance the Multinational Force of Observers in the Sinai Peninsula, and that 30 Japanese Soldiers are deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in the Golan Heights. Israel is deeply appreciative to Japan's commitment to its security and the stability of the region.
I also want to take a moment to express my gratitude on behalf of the Israeli government and people to Mr. Yutaka Uemura, the outgoing Special Envoy to the Middle East peace process from Japan, and to wish great success to the incoming Envoy Yohei Kono. Israel is confident that Mr. Kono will continue the excellent work of Mr. Uemura in his new role.
Mr. Ambassador, please allow me to conclude by asking you to convey our best wishes to His Majesty the Emperor, and to the Government and People of Japan on your National Day. May the bonds between our nations continue to grow in the years ahead."
Representing the Prime Minister of Israel, Harel Locker, Said the following:
"Com ban wa,
Ladies and Gentlemen, I am the director general of the prime minister office of Israel, and I would like to read to you this evening, Prime Minister Netanyahu's greeting on the occasion of the Emperor's birthday celebrations.
Ambassador and Mrs. Matsutomi, Friends, I join you in celebrating the birthday of His Majesty, Emperor Akihito.
Japan and Israel are two democracies at the opposite ends of the Asian continent. But our two countries and our two peoples are joined together in a very special friendship.
A friendship I experienced first-hand during my visit to Japan earlier this year when I met with senior Japanese officials, including Prime Minister Abe.
Though our countries already enjoy a strong partnership, I am convinced that there remains great untapped potential for cooperation between Israeli businesses and Japanese businesses; and between the government of Japan and the government of Israel. We both have much to gain by working together even more closely.
Japan has demonstrated remarkable industrial success, advanced science, internationally renowned quality control, consistently creative new ideas and a massive global reach.
Israel has a proven capacity for innovation, which produces unexpected and innovative thinking. The potential is clear. I see it. I believe that Prime Minister Abe sees it too.
We must work together to realize our shared potential for the benefit of both our peoples.
Ambassador and Mrs. Matsutomi, On behalf of the government of Israel; I join the people of Japan in celebrating the birthday of your Emperor.
May Japan and Israel enjoy the blessings of prosperity and peace. These were the words of Prime Minister Netanyahu.
On a personal note I, Harel Locker, would like to say, that it was a great honor to visit Japan as part of an official economic Israeli delegation, a few weeks ago.
We could sense that a new, exciting era of Japan-Israel relations is coming. Japan is one of the most technological and productive states in the world.
Israel's economy is very innovative in every field - medical devices, Agritech, Fintech, Cyber Security, renewable energy, homeland security and many other fields.
Our economies are complementary, and therefore cooperation is natural. You can be the senior partner. We could be the junior one.
Ladies and Gentleman, I'm certain that in addition to our great friendship, we will have also a great business partnership together. Together we can seize the future.
Thank you very much. Mazal Tov and Domo arigato."
In this event, we felt deeply the strong friendship between the people of both countries – Japan and Israel – which was evident in the speeches and atmosphere.
Best wishes for many more years of mutual cooperation and success for the two countries Japan and Israel!
About Harel's role on the Japanese issue
Harel Locker, Director General of the Prime Minister's Office of Israel was appointed by the PM to Promote economic ties with Japan.
3 weeks ago he headed an economic delegation of 30 members - Government high ranking officials, leaders of the business sector and leading academics.
PM Netanyahu concluded with PM Abe upon his visit in Japan during May to promote exchange of delegations between the countries. The Japanese METI Minister
headed a delegation to Israel and now we reciprocate with an economic delegation to Japan.
The delegation conducted a 4 day visit to Kansai region and to Tokyo. Met and visited many Japanese enterprises, the Keidanren, Members of parliament and of the METI Ministry.
Representing the Government: Israel Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Economy, Israel Ministry of Transportation, Israel Cyber Bureau, "The Fuel Choices Initiative".
Business organizations: Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute, Manufacturers Association of Israel. Israel-Japan Chamber of Commerce, Association of Craft & Industry in Israel.
Business Sector: TEVA, Amdocs, IBM Israel, Q-Core Medical, EMC, SAP Israel, IAI- Israel Aerospace Industries, 3M, Security Dam, Raphael, IMI. Academy: Tel Aviv University Center for Nano-science and Nano-technology.
Photos Silvia Golan
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- Written by Silvia Golan
At the Hilton Hotel in Tel Aviv Thai Ambassador Boon-Long, his wife Kamolrat Boon-Long and embassy staff hosted a reception on December 3 celebrating 87th Birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand.
There were beautiful Thai traditions: baskets of flowers and multicolor fruits decorated and sculpted, and Thai musicians brought especially from Thailand welcomed and delighted the guests. Typical Thai food and Thai beer were served, and on display was a collection of traditional Thai women's clothing.
Guest of honor was Ms. Limor Livnat, Minister of Culture and Sport representing the Israeli government. Also present were Professor Yuli Tamir, president of Shenkar College and former Labor Party MK; President of the Diamond Exchange, Mr. Shlomo Eshet; Mayor of Herzliya Mr. Moshe Fadlon; numerous ambassadors and diplomats of foreign countries; representatives of the Israeli army and attachés of various embassies; as well as delegates of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and commercial sectors.
The event began with the Thai and Israeli national anthems played by the musicians, followed by Ambassador's warm welcome of the guests.
"Sawasdee krub (in Thai)
Good evening to everyone. I would like to express my deep appreciation for your present this evening.
It means so much to me, my wife and Thailand as we know that we have many dear friends who, despite their busy schedule, kindly join us in celebrating the most important day of our nation.
In Thailand, we celebrate the National Day on the occasion of the Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. He is one of the greatest King and the longest reigning monarch in the world. And for Thai people, His Majesty is the sole of the nation and we love him dearly.
During his reign, His Majesty has devoted his time and effort to the development of the country. He has introduced several Royal projects to the Thai people by using his simple know-how techniques, just to help them live happy and prosperous life. These Royal projects touch on the livelihood and well-being of the Thai people such as "the rain making project" in the northeast where draught is always a problem., "the project on crops substitution", in the north for the hill-tribe people to give up producing opium and turn to growing cash crops instead, and "the project on irrigation" (Gam-Ling: Monkey's cheek), for water resource and flood management. These are only parts of the samples of the mentioned Royal projects of more than three thousand (3,000).
In promoting the relation between Thailand and Israel, the Royal Thai Embassy determine to follow His Majesty's footstep by introducing Israelis expertise, experiences and the best practices to the Thai people, so they could improve their way of living and working, particularly in the field of agricultural advanced technology and medical science where we work closely with the Hadassa and Rambam Hospital. We also hope that with the promotion of the exchange business delegations, the investment and trade cooperation between two countries will be flourished in the near future.
Excellencies,
Distinguish Guests,
To let our Israeli friends learn more about Thailand, the Embassy have been promoting exquisite cultures of Thailand in Israel cities such as Jerusalem, Haifa, Beer Sheva, Nazareth and Tel Aviv. These cultures of Thai cuisine, classical dance and music, Muay Thai, will let our friends realize that Thailand has much more to offer to them, than just Samui, Pa-ngan or the famous Full-moon party.
As you can see now, the exhibition of Thai textile displays in this hall as well as at the Shenkar Institute aim at sharing with you our culture through weaving technique and pattern of textile.
This year marks the 60th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Israel. Each and every one of you is parts of this auspicious occasion. You have played an active role in promoting the relationships of the two countries and we wish you be a part of this noble task for years to come.
May I now invite all of you to join me in a toast for the good health and happiness of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand and the long lasting friendship between our two countries."
To the King".
Ms. Livnat responded on behalf of the State of Israel:
"Your Excellency the Ambassador of Thailand MR. JUKR and Mrs. Boon-Long,
Distinguished Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Missions in Israel, Honorable Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
"SA WAD DEE KA
I am pleased and honored to represent the Government and People of Israel at this joyous celebration of the 87th Birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
This evening is all the more special as it occurs during the year of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the State of Israel and the Kingdom of Thailand. Thailand was among the first countries to both recognize and maintain diplomatic relations with the State of Israel throughout the years, and our two nations have enjoyed an ever-warming friendship since our bilateral relations began.
To mark the occasion of this year's 60th anniversary, there have been numerous events in both Israel and Thailand celebrating Thai-Israeli friendship. We look forward to continuing this momentum and further improving our cooperation in a variety of fields in the coming years.
Thailand is a key member state of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and has one of the largest economies in Asia. Thailand will undoubtedly continue to play an increasingly important economic role in the region. Already, thanks to its vitality, Thailand is paving the way for the ASEAN Economic Community, which will enter into effect in 2015. We hope that this will help Israel to promote its own economic presence in Thailand and throughout the entire region.
Trade cooperation between us has already developed into a significant partnership. Last year, Thai-Israeli trade valued more than one billion dollars.
In addition, Israel has developed close collaborations with Thailand in many sectors, such as health-care. Cooperation between the Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, and the Chulabhorn Research Institute in Bangkok in the field of cancer research is a greatly valued area of partnership. We are deeply appreciative of Princess Chulabhorn's role in personally driving the development of this initiative.
Another significant area of collaboration between our countries is seen in the thousands of Thai citizens who come to Israel every year to work in the agricultural sector. These men and women play a very important role in the Israeli economy, and last year, almost 24,000 of them worked within Israel's borders.
The Thailand-Israel Employment Cooperation (TIC) Agreement, made in partnership with the International Organization of Migration (IOM), has helped fuel the historic agricultural cooperation between our countries. The first of its kind in the world, the Agreement has earned both nations esteem in the international community, and greatly benefits the agricultural workers that travel to Israel every year.
Israel is proud to have trained thousands of Thailand's citizens in agriculture and other areas through MASHAV, and remains committed to the well-being and protection of all Thai citizens working within Israel's borders. I would like to take this moment to express my thanks and appreciation to the thousands of Thai men and women who have shown incredible dedication to their work in Israel, even throughout the recent Operation Protective Edge.
Finally, let us also not forget that Thailand is the leading tourist destination in Asia for Israelis. Every year, tens of thousands of Israelis visit Thailand, and last year was no exception. More than 150,000 Israeli citizens travelled to Thailand last year, and El Al operates daily flights between Tel Aviv and Bangkok. This tourism plays a crucial role in the cultural exchanges between our two nations, in turn building new understanding between Thai and Israeli citizens alike.
Mr. Ambassador, please allow me to conclude by asking you to convey our best wishes to His Majesty the King of Thailand, and the Government and People of Thailand on your National Day. May Thailand continue to flourish, and the friendship between us continue to grow in the coming years.
KOB -KUN-KA
(THANK YOU)"
The warmth of the Ambassador's wife Mrs. Kamolrat and embassy staff added to the beautiful and exquisite celebration.
Photos Silvia G Golan
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- Written by Jonathan Danilowitz
The Meshulam Riklis Lobby of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art was the scene of an elegant gathering of the Israeli Diplomatic corps and other VIPs on Monday evening on the occasion of the National Day of Romania. The event was hosted by her Excellency Ambassador Andreea Păstârnac and her husband. Among the many ambassadors, consular officials and society VIPs present were Fr. Angelo Beda Ison, representing the Vatican Embassy; Colette Avital, Romanian-born Israeli diplomat and politician; Mordechai Paltzur, former Israeli ambassador and the person responsible for developing diplomatic relations for Israel with several Eastern European countries (and subsequently Israel's first ambassador to Poland after reestablishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries); Nitzan Chen, the Director of the Israel Government Press Office; Nanci Brandes, Romanian-born Israeli musician, conductor, comedian, entertainer and composer; and many others. Notably missing were two of Romania's Honorary Consuls in Israel, Benny (Binyamin) Baratz and Bruno Landsberg, both unable to attend. As always, the various military attaches in their smart uniforms, with their escorts, added a special sparkle to this beautiful event.
Guests enjoyed a rich buffet of snacks while mingling and renewing friendships and making new ones. Besides soft and other drinks, a range of superior Romanian wines was on offer, to the delight of all present. We particularly enjoyed the Nomad Feteasca Neagra 2009, as well as the crisp whites. Several large companies, Romanian and Israeli, added their cache to the event, proving sponsorships and support, TAROM being the major sponsor. Others included the Ben Haim and Carmel Wineries, Sixt, Sano, Israel Aircraft Industries, Bank Leumi and Zim, and more.
After a brief introduction, the Romanian singer and entertainer Stefania Rares performed beautiful renditions of both the Romanian and the Israeli national anthems. (Ms. Rares later performed a selection of Romanian folk songs for our entertainment, to appreciative applause from the guests.)
Her Excellency Ambassador Păstârnac then addressed the audience - In fluent Hebrew! She began by briefly touching on the historical background of Romanian independence and development. Madame Păstârnac spoke on the excellent relationship – which has survived through thick and thin – between her country and the State of Israel. She mentioned the large number of Romanian immigrant descendants living in Israel today, and of their dynamic and fundamental contribution, not only to Israeli society, but to the economy and well-being of Israel. She reminded us of the historical importance of Romanian immigrants to then Turkish Palestine over 200 years ago. They where instrumental in founding the Carmel Wineries and some of their descenedants, seven and eight generations later, still reside in the Zichron Yaakov area. The Ambassador's message to Israel was one of deep friendship and appreciation for the strong bi-lateral relations the two countries enjoy.
On behalf of the State of Israel, MK Tzipi Livni, Israel's Minister of Justice, responded. She opened her address in English, but noted that the Romanian Ambassador had requested that she address the audience in Hebrew, which she then continued to do. Ms. Livni's greetings to Romania were warm and friendly. She stressed that Romania's continued support and friendship for Israel are not taken for granted, and that Israel appreciates the excellent bilateral relations. "There are some 400,000 Israelis of Romanian descent, which means Israel and Romania are linked not only diplomatically, but at a very societal level too". Israel, she said, is a country for all its citizens, but that does not mean that different societies and cultures must be merged in the giant melting pot. "There is still place for individuality". As an aside, Ms. Livni touched on a facet of the misunderstanding in the world today; the difference between what the world thinks of Israel, and what Israel really is. In conclusion she asked the Ambassador to extend warm best wishes and congratulations to the Romanian Government and people, from the people of Israel.
The entertainment provided by Ms. Rares brought the celebrations to a fitting end.
Photos by Silvia G Golan
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- Written by Office of the President
Photo President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Lee Gun- Tae of Korea
New ambassadors from the Czech Republic, Peru, Kazakhstan and Korea today presented their Letters of Credence to President Reuven Rivlin at a formal ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem
New ambassadors from the Czech Republic, Peru, Kazakhstan and Korea today (Thursday, 4 December 2014) presented their Letters of Credence to President Reuven Rivlin at a formal ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem.
During their meeting with the president, the ambassadors expressed their hope of strengthening relations and expanding cooperation between the two countries.
President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Ivo Schwarz of Czech Republic
Ambassador Ivo Schwarz of the Czech Republic presented his credentials, thanked the President and said, "It is an honor for me to represent my country here in Israel. The collaborative relationship between our governments is good and progressive, and includes fruitful cooperation in the areas of security and the struggle against terrorism. It will be my pleasure to strengthen the cultural and tourism relations between the citizens of our countries."
President Rivlin greeted him warmly and said: "We are deeply appreciative of the Czech people and their government; you have set an example for us. We hope that you will feel that Israel is your home."
President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Gustavo Antonio Otero Zapata of Peru at the reception in Jerusalem
Ambassador Gustavo Antonio Otero Zapata of Peru presented his credentials to President Rivlin and said: "I have worked in Israel on previous postings, and feel that I am returning home. I would like to continue to promote the bilateral relationship between our two nations. We thank you for both your assistance and for the Israeli investments in Peru, such as the development of water technology that has made a significant contribution."
President Rivlin praised the good bilateral relationship between the two countries and said: "I have visited Peru, and have seen that both our nations share a common value, that of the deep roots of a people to its homeland."
President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Doulat Kuanyhev of Kazakhstan
Ambassador Doulat Kuanyshev of Kazakhstan presented his credentials and said: "It is an honor for me to be here. The warmth I feel reminds me of home. I would like to convey warm greetings on behalf of the president of Kazakhstan, who feels a close connection to your country and to Jerusalem. We are committed to continue to encourage tolerance between different ethnic groups, and I know, Mr. President, that this is an issue dear to your heart."
President Rivlin replied: "The relationship between Israel and the Kazakh people is evidence that the conflict in our region is not related to religious beliefs. Our relationship serves as an example that despite the differences between us, cooperation can prevail. We are deeply appreciative of your president; I know he does a lot, regardless of religion. He is known as an international leader who actively works to create understanding and tolerance."
Korean Ambassador Lee Gun-tae presented his credentials to the president and said: "I hope to expand the existing technological cooperation between our nations. One of my wishes is to augment the awareness of Koreans visiting Israel, as they tend to focus mainly on the history of Israel, and expose them to Israel's advanced high-tech industries."
President Rivlin responded to the Korean ambassador and said: "I believe that during your service here we will find additional avenues of cooperation. The rapid development of Korea and the manner in which the Korean people produce miracles proves to the world that it is possible to cope with adversity while at the same time developing the country, education and quality of life."
Photos : Copyright: GPO/Mark Neiman
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- Written by Sima Lahat & Silvia Golan
On October 28th, 2014, the Czech ambassadorׂ ( designated) ׂׂto Israel, Mr. Ivo Schwarz and his wife Mrs. Eva Schwarz, offered a reception at their residence in Hertzlia Pituach to celebrate the Czech Republic's National day.
Tuesday, 28 October: Independent Czechoslovak State Day - date of the foundation of Czechoslovakia, which declared independence from the Hapsburg Empire at the end of World War I.
In the early hours of October 28, 1918 the agricultural council, in the name of the National Committee, took over the cereal institute in order to prevent the transport of grain to the front. This was followed by the dissemination of information recognizing Austro-Hungary's peace conditions. That evening the National Committee issued the first law on the establishment of an independent state.
The glittering guest list included members of the diplomatic corps, business and commercial leaders, VIPs of the Czech communities in Israel, Israeli political leaders and other "who's who" of the Israel social calendar.
The Czech Ambassador welcomed the honorable guest of Israel - The Tourism Minister, Mr.Uzi Landau.
A lavish buffet dinner featuring Czech dishes like Goulash and Blanches followed, accompanied of course by Czech bear and a range of alcoholic and other beverages. Guests mingled happily, renewing old friendships and creating new ones.
The formal part of the event started with violinists playing the national anthems of both countries, followed by the speech of the designated Ambassador for the Czech Republic.
In welcoming the guests, the Ambassador thanked everyone for being there in celebration of this remarkable day for the Czech country.
Wording of the speech gave by the Ambassador Ivo Schwarz:
"Only two weeks ago I arrived as new ambassador of the Czech Republic. Therefore let me take this opportunity to briefly introduce myself. My name is Ivo Schwarz and I am very happy to be appointed as the official Czech representative in this wonderful country. I collaborated very closely with the State of Israel in my previous job concerning the Czech national security and I am looking forward to develop my experience also on this responsible position.
Thank you for joining us to celebrate the Czech national holiday. I am happy to see you all here especially the Minister of tourism Uzi Landau. Tourism is a very important part of Czech-Israeli relations, the number of Israeli visitors in the Czech Republic is increasing every year and we would be happy to intensify this trend even more. I am saying this not only because of the economic impact of tourism, but also because of the social one. Travelling leads to better knowledge of the other culture and mentality, better understanding, empathy for the other country and creates the fundament for the friendship between the nations. For this reason we strongly support also the tourism from the Czech Republic to Israel and it is not a coincidence that the Czech Airlines did not interrupt their regular service during the conflict this summer. Tourism offers a great potential to our relations and I am convinced that we will together successfully manage also the future challenges in this field. Dear Minister Uzi Landau it is an honor to have you here and welcome among us.
And now let me say couple of words about history of this day. But firstly one sentence in Czech: Vitám zde všechny Čechoslováky
The Czech national holiday commemorate a history 96 years ago. On October 28, 1918 the first independent Czechoslovak state was founded from territories that were previously part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Of all the new states established in central Europe after 1918, only Czechoslovakia became a successful multi-party parliamentary democracy and preserved a democratic government until the war broke out. Czechoslovakia belonged to a small group of states that officially recognized Jewish nationality and granted Jews full civil rights. Even when right-wing extremism rose in prewar Europe, Czechoslovakia was one of the few countries that did not apply any anti-Jewish laws. During this period, three congresses of the World Zionist Organization took place in the Czech cities of Prague and Karlovy Vary. In addition, Czechoslovak president Masaryk was a keen supporter of the Zionist movement and the first head of state who visited the Jewish communities in Palestine in 1927.
I mention it because with the celebration of Czechoslovakia we celebrate also the Czech-Israeli friendship. There was no coincidence that 1948 the Czechoslovak government recognized the State of Israel only 5 days after its proclamation of independence and supplied it with military equipment and weapons, when Israel found itself at war with its Arab neighbors. Similar like Israel the prewar Czechoslovakia was surrounded on every side by hostile non-democratic states. At that time its security was "guaranteed" by a series of international agreements and "promises", but at the end of the 1930th Czechoslovakia lost its independence with horrible consequences for the overwhelming majority of its population, especially for our Jewish citizens. This history might explain why we support Israel as the only democracy in the Middle East till the present time.
I am happy to say that the bilateral relations are in top form, as evidenced by the high frequency of our political contacts, increasing dynamics of economic exchange and a rich network of activities at non-governmental level. For the Czech Embassy it means a commitment which we want do develop further for intensifying of our partnership and friendship. The most important events in the coming days will be the visit of the Czech Minister of foreign affairs Lubomír Zaorálek in the state of Israel followed by a visit of members of defense and security committee of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Parliament and at the end of next month the by common cabinet meeting of the Czech and Israeli government in Jerusalem.
A lot of work has been done, a lot of work is still staying before us. Therefore I am happy to see you here to support us in our effort and celebrate the independence day of a state on the spiritual foundation of which the Czech Republic was established. I am very glad about your coming and looking forward to our further cooperation.
Finally let me thank to all my colleagues from the embassy, who worked heavy to prepare this reception".
Following the speech of the Ambassador, Minister Uzi Landau addressed the dignitaries and said the following:
"I am very pleased and honored to represent the Government and People of Israel in congratulating the Czech Republic on the occasion of its National Day, on the 28th of October, the day on which Czechoslovakia was established in 1918.
The friendship between Israel and the Czech Republic is more than just a close relationship between two governments. It is a friendship between two peoples, and it is a tie that runs deep. As we join you in celebration of this year's National Day, we again wish to take the opportunity to express Israel's esteem and appreciation to both the Czech Government and the Czech People for their traditional longstanding support of Israel.
Even prior to the formal establishment of the State of Israel, the people of Czechoslovakia stood by the Jewish people. Czech support during our War for Independence, given through supplies of arms, aircraft, and training for our young pilots, was crucial during the early days of Israel's existence. Since then, leaders of the Czech Republic have consistently stood alongside the Israeli people, and we take great pride at the special relationship that has grown between our two countries.
Of course, we well remember and appreciate the historic and prominent Czech support given by President Thomas Masaryk and later by Foreign Minister Jan Masaryk, as well as by President Edvard Beneš.
This summer, during the period of Operation Protective Edge, Israel had to once again face terrorist attacks against our civilian population in the south and elsewhere throughout the country. The visit to Israel by a Parliamentarian delegation during this time, which included Czech parties from the Coalition and Opposition, was heartwarming, and was carried out quickly and out of a deep sense of solidarity.
To emphasize the high level of our bilateral relationship, one year ago, Israel had the honor and privilege of hosting President Miloš Zeman, whose visit was a prominent example of the closeness of our two nations' ties. Senior representatives of both countries are currently working on this coming month's Third Government-to-Government meeting in Jerusalem, focusing on economic cooperation and innovation.
Our close bilateral relations include academic cooperation in the form of two special Chairs, sponsored by both Governments, at the Inter-Disciplinary Center in Herzelia and at the Masaryk University in Brno, and also the Czech-Israel Forum which met for the third time in July of this year.
We welcome the ties between the young generations of the Czech Republic and Israel, and we are currently working for the signing of a "working holiday agreement" which will enable youth to stay for lengthy periods of time in each other's country, combining work with tourism.
Israel views with concern the growing anti-Semitism in parts of Europe, and we value the Czech Republic's contribution as a loyal and determined ally in the fight against anti-Semitism.
We welcome the Czech Republic's Ambassador-Designate, Mr. Ivo Schwarz, who in his previous positions, maintained close ties with his Israeli counterparts. Ambassador-Designate Schwarz, we are confident that in your new position you will continue to promote close bilateral relations.
To conclude, please convey to the Government and People of the Czech Republic our congratulations on the occasion of your National Day. May your country enjoy continued prosperity and success, and may the ties of friendship and cooperation between the Czech Republic and the State of Israel continue to flourish in the years ahead".
Best wishes for peace, prosperity and friendship between our two peoples.
Best wishes for many more years of mutual cooperation and success for the two countries - Czech and Israel.
Photos Silvia Golan
