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Philippine Ambassador to Israel Sets 2026 Targets: Direct Tel Aviv–Manila Flights and 35,000 Israeli Tourist Arrivals
The Philippine Ambassador to Israel, H.E. Aileen S. Mendiola, has placed the promotion of direct flights between Tel Aviv and Manila
and the increase of Israeli tourist arrivals to the Philippines at the top of her 2026 agenda.
The Ambassador aims to raise the number of Israeli visitors from approximately 25,000 in 2025 to 35,000 annually.
The Philippine Ambassador to Israel, H.E. Mrs. Aileen S. Mendiola, has placed the promotion of direct flights between Tel Aviv and Manila and the increase of Israeli tourist arrivals to the Philippines at the top of her 2026 agenda. The Ambassador aims to raise the number of Israeli visitors from approximately 25,000 in 2025 to 35,000 annually.
Ambassador Mendiola said this target is achievable by further raising awareness of the Philippines in the Israeli market as a unique and diverse destination. She underscored that the Philippines offers a broad range of experiences and niche tourism products attractive to Israeli travelers, including diving, adventure activities, surfing, trekking, romantic travel, wellness tourism, and leisure.
Ambassador Mendiola also emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration with Israeli travel wholesalers and agencies, while working closely with media outlets and airlines, as part of a comprehensive strategy to stimulate demand and increase two-way travel between the Philippines and Israel.
On direct flights, the Ambassador noted encouraging indicators. In 2025, approximately 25,000 Israeli tourists visited the Philippines, while about 50,000 Filipino nationals traveled to Israel—despite the absence of direct flights, high airfares, and flight disruptions. According to Ambassador Mendiola, these figures clearly justify the viability of two to three weekly direct flights between Tel Aviv and Manila. “We are actively engaging partner airlines, as well as tourism and transport authorities on both sides, with the goal of achieving concrete outcomes by the third quarter of 2026,” she said.
The Philippines is widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful and distinctive destinations. Situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the archipelago comprises 7,641 islands, many uninhabited, with dense jungles, 21 active volcanoes, and one of the longest coastlines in the world. It offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and marine life, waterfalls and rainforests, white-sand beaches, world-class surfing, dramatic rice terraces, and a rich cultural heritage, including indigenous communities that have preserved ancient traditions for thousands of years.
Photos credit: Tim Rock, Uri Magnus and the Embassy of the Philippines in Israel
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On Monday morning, the 12th of January 2026, the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Israel hosted a meeting for Israeli Tour Operators presenting Uzbekistan's Tourism Potential at the Embassy in Ramat Gan.
On behalf of the Ambassador who is currently abroad, the moderator, Mr. Sherzod Shavkatbekov, warmly welcomed everyone present stating that Uzbekistan's rich and diverse cultural heritage, close proximity coupled by attractive, competitive and price effective rates, is a perfect destination for Israeli tourists. The morning's programme included presentations by diplomats, two representatives of Uzbek airline companies, an Uzbek Tourism brand Ambassador and active partners involved in the promotion of Uzbek tourism in Israel.
Mr. Alisher Yormatov, the Embassy of Uzbekistan's Political Counsellor, briefly addressed the crowd saying that the purpose of the tourism promotion was to inform Israeli tour operators of Uzbekistan's tourism potential as it is a tourism Mecca. Having hosted over 10.2 million tourists in 2024 in the spheres of cultural tourism, gastronomic tourism, pilgrimage tourism, ethnic tourism, medical tourism, sports tourism, youth tourism, ecotourism and MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences.and exhibitions).
Mr. Dadamukhamedov Bokhodir, the Deputy Country Manager of Uzbekistan Airways in Israel said that there are currently 3 flights per week and from March 2026 there will be 4 flights per week. Mr. Rumi Mukhamadaliev, Centrum Air Country Manager in Israel briefly addressed the operators, elucidating the airline's attractive options and speaking about air connectivity between Uzbekistan and Israel. Centrum Air owns 13 freighters and 13 passenger aircraft. In 2025, 1 600 000 passengers flew with us, we also provided flights for 60% of the country's cargo. Centrum Air is a low cost airline and currently we fly to 44 destinations worldwide.
A live video recording and presentation was shown by Mr. T. Shamsimatov the Head of the Marketing Department of State Committee for Tourism. He mentioned that Uzbekistan is located in the heart of Central Asia and is at the crossroads of civilization and trade as it was the centre of the Silk Road which connected China, India and Europe. Uzbekistan also hosts 7 UNESCO world heritage sites and 18 elements of Intangible Cultural heritage have been inscribed by UNESCO.Tashkent is the country's capital city both noticeable for its rich cultural heritage combining modernity and traditionalism. Other cities noticeable for its cultural touristic sites are Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva. Four distinct seasons where different options are available such as Navruz in spring, picnics in summer, golden landscapes in autumn and skiing and snowboarding in winter. The country's enchanting geographic beauty is epitomized by its breathtaking mountains, rich cuisine, nature and cultural landmarks displaying a mosaic of Islamic architecture. The leading resort group, Amirsoy Resorts, is the country's flagship offering accomodation at attractive prices and hosting accomodation at exotic destinations in Beldersay, Chimgan and Zaamin. The silk road's monuments built primarily in Samarkand are beyond belief expressing grandeur and excellence. Khiva, a city home to the pearls of Islamic architecture synthesized with a country simultaneously showcasing modernity.
Mr. Oscar Akhmedov, Manager of the Tourism Service under the Uzbek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed the audience via a live video recording saying that services in Uzbekistan are affordable and efficient and can be enjoyed together with a rich history portraying modernity, tradition, gastronomic cuisine, architecture and the hospitality of local people. In 2025, Uzbekistan became the world's fastest growing tourist destination and was voted as one of the seven most popular tourist destinations. Modern buses, transport systems and good points of departure such as modern airports and stations add to the appeal of visiting the country. There are over 240 partners and 30 leading resorts and international hotel chains and sanatoriums as well various airlines making it a convenient hub for business travel, professional guides, planning and organization of conferences, tours, destination weddings, expositions and symposiums.
The Consul of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Israel, Mr. Shukhrat Abdullaev, stated that the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan has decided to appoint Mr. Nissan Mushaev as the Uzbek Tourism Brand Ambassador in Israel. In this capacity, he will work jointly with the incumbent Tourism Ambassador, Mr. Hay Davidov, to promote and further develop Uzbekistan as a tourist destination in Israel.
A certificate designating Mr. Nissan Mushaev as the Uzbek Tourism Brand Ambassador in Israel was presented to him, who responded ebulliently saying that Uzbekistan is an extremely beautiful country, in 2025 it was voted as being one of the 7 most interesting countries. Ancient Jewish communities in Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent were established over a thousand years ago. Kosher restaurants in Samarkand and elsewhere are available and many Israeli businesspeople travel and work in Uzbekistan. Jews can safely display their religious symbols without any fear of reprisals as Uzbekistan is a country that fosters coexistence and multiculturalism, making it part of its national fabric due to the many ethnic diversities living there. The country has proceeded to be a modern, open, dynamic country welcoming all tourists.
Dr. Zeev Levin, Director at the Research Centre of Jews in Central Asia at the Ben-Zvi Institute for the Study of Jewish Communities in the East reiterated the ancient presence of Jews living in Uzbekistan for over 1000 years without antisemitism. Muslim pilgrimage is ubiquitous as many devotees visit holy graves of saints.
The Programme ended by Mr. Sherzod Shavkatbekov thanking all participants for their presence and by stating that the Samarkand Campus of the international Tourism Academy under the patronage of UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) has been established with the purpose of studying and preserving the ancient Spice Route's legacy.
A sumptuous buffet of pilaf with carrots and lamb, delicate Uzbek pastries filled with meat, salads and wine were served on terrace and present was none other than the Arab Council for Foreign Affairs Chairman, Dr. Khalid and Mrs. Reem Khalifa from Haifa, Mr. Shuki Fishler, Sales Manager at Maman Aviation and Ms. Nargiza Kadirova, President of New Uzbekistan Trading and Investments House.
Diplomacy.co.il expresses its appreciation and thanks to the Embassy of Uzbekistan and to everyone involved in actualizing this extraordinary presentation and promotion for Israeli Tour Operators of Uzbekistan's Tourism Potential.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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On the 1st of December 2025, the Ambassador of the Republic of Ecuador to the State of Israel, H.E. Ms. Maria Cristina Cevallos Calero hosted an opening ceremony of the Ecuadorian Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's at the ASPER - HUJI Innovate Centre located in Givat Ram.
During a state visit in May 2024, celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations, President Daniel Gilchrist Noboa Azin of Ecuador inaugurated the Ecuadorian Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship located at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's ASPER - HUJI Innovate Centre which was established in 2001.
The Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Amnon Dekel, Executive Director of the ASPER - HUJI Innovate Centre warmly welcomed dignitaries as well as all and sundry saying that we have developed relationships with a few Latin American countries and that Ecuador's President was here in 2024 when he inaugurated the Centre.
The President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Prof. Tamir Sheafer, started his speech by saying that it is not often that we witness the opening of a diplomatic office on a university campus. Our record of translating world - class research into impactful companies and world solutions is drawing an increasing number of global partners to engage with us and sign cooperation agreements. The very Centre which we are officially opening today, represents a vision of the future embodying a growing tapestry of global partnerships - supporting co - learning, research, teaching, training, development and international cooperation. Today the government of Ecuador has chosen to do precisely that by establishing an official diplomatic presence on our Edmond Safra campus. For the State of Israel, this decision not only affirms recognition of Jerusalem but also an integral part of our nation. For us the university, this moment signals a meaningful message that the scientific excellence pursued here attracts forward looking governments seeking to learn, collaborate and participate. We look forward to collaboration between researchers, students, innovators both from Ecuador and Israel where we can concomitantly work together in order to address challenges facing both our societies and to create successful ventures capable of offering solutions to the wider world. He concluded by saying that we are delighted to welcome this new office to our campus hoping that it will serve as a catalyst for broader and deeper cooperation in the years ahead.
Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Gideon Sa'ar said that Ecuador, under the leadersip of President Noboa, is among Israel's greatest friends. Ecuador stood by us during some of our most challenging moments and supported our right to self - defence. Ecuador has designated Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Hezbollah and Hamas as terrorist organizations. Immediately after having been reelected by a clear majority, President Noboa visited Israel being the second Ecuadorian President to do so. During his visit he inaugurated this Centre whose opening we celebrate today. He is currently fighting narco - terrorism and reducing Ecuador's poverty rates. Under him, Ecuador has a foreign policy with a clear moral dimension. Israel and Ecuador have close and long standing relations as Ecuador welcomed Jewish refugees fleeing the Holocaust. In 1947 Ecuador voted for the establishment of the Jewish state and in 1950 full diplomatic relations were initiated. He has pledged that in the Spring of 2026, Ecuador's Embassy will be relocating to Jerusalem. Through the opening of this Centre, we are strengthening our ties in the fields of innovation, and people to people partnerships. I intend to visit Ecuador by 2026 as part of my commitment to strengthen our relationship. He concluded by congratulating Ecuador's government for this step taken. Many thanks to Ecuador's President Noboa, Ecuador's Foreign Minister H.E. Ms. Gabriela Sommerfeld and Ecuador's Ambassador to Israel, H.E. Ms Maria Cristina Cavallos for their friendship, also a million thanks to the President of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Prof. Tamir Sheafer for hosting this diplomatic centre.
The Ambassador of Ecuador to Israel, H.E. Ms. Maria Cristina Cevallos Calero surprised everyone by addressing the audience in impeccable Hebrew. The opening of the Ecuadorian Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a consolidated initiative to intensify Ecuador and Israel's relationship. Innovation and entrepreneurship can strengthen our nations as innovation opens doors and gives society the opportunity to expand. Innovation strengthens the economy creating new products and services. Innovation does not flourish in isolation but with partnerships and healthy collaborative efforts between governments, the private sector, civil society and universities, all being a necessity for innovation to take root. It is imperative to finance new projects and initiatives by granting companies and start ups the opportunity to flourish. Education in A.I., mathematics, life sciences and computers is a must for a prosperous society. We can strengthen our relationship in the fields of innovation, water resources and energy. My heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the Hebrew University for their support. I am filled with a great sense of pride as my country is opening a diplomatic office at the Hebrew University's campus as I studied here. My thanks to the team at the Embassy and as we look to the future, for those who embrace innovation, it will lead to global development and advancement.
The opening ceremony ended with the cutting of the ribbon symbolizing the Centre's official opening.
The President of the Hebrew University presented H.E. Ms. Maria Cristina Cevallos with a book on Albert Einstein's life who was a co - founder, serving on the University's board, in 1952 he refused the position of President of the Hebrew University. Upon his demise, he bequeathed all his intellectual property to the university.
Among the many notable guests attending the opening were the Ambassadors of Guatemala, Costa Rica, Peru and Paraguay, Diplomats, Mr. Pablo Harstein - Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of the Argentine Republic, Mr. Jai F. Morales Allan - Minister Counsellor of the Embassy of Guatemala, Prof. Guy Harpaz - the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Vice President for International Affairs, H.E. Mr. Amir Ofek - Foreign Ministry's Deputy Director General for Latin America and the Caribbean, H.E. Mr. Edwin Yabo - Foreign Ministry's Director of South American Department in the Latin American Division, H.E. Mr. Itai Bardov - Foreign Ministry's Chief of Staff for Foreign Policy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Maor Ifrah - Advisor to the Foreign Ministry's Director General, Mr. Gabriel Hayon - Chairman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Tony Raichler - the Knesset's Head of International Affairs for Latin America, Ms. Ika Chocolate - Ambassador of Ecuadorian Chocolate in Israel, H.E. Mr. Zeev Harel - Israel's former Ambassador to Ecuador, Osher Shkalim - Knesset Member, MS. Miriam Berger - Director General of the Latin - American Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Mauricio Dimat - Coordinator of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Entrepreneurship and Innovation with Latin America, Ms. Ana Belen Chavez - Director of the Ecuadorian Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Mr. Nathan Allalouf - Honorary Consul of Costa Rica and President of the Allalouf Group, Mr. Jonathan Talsky - a lawyer representing Dr Gidon Fisher and Co. Law Firm, Mr. Sagi Einav - Climatech's CEO and founder, Ms. Shiri Milo Locker - Climatech's Co-founder - Business Development and Ms. Ilana Shaked - Granilax's International Markets Development.
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On the 4th of December 2025, H.E. Mr. Boonyarit Vichienpuntu, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the State of Israel, hosted a reception at The George hotel, Tel Aviv in honour of Thailand's national day, the Anniversary of His Majesty, King Bhumibol Birth and Thailand's Father's Day.
A showcase displaying exquisite and ornate Thai sculptures and ornaments was exhibited.
A photo booth showing "Chut Thai:Dressing the Nation in Heritage" of Thai national costumes developed under Queen Sikit's vision to promote cultural identity and foster national pride through eight distinct styles of traditional dress being on Unesco's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Part of the buffet included sculptures of watermelons, sweet melons and pumpkin sculptures making an impression on everyone present.
A Thai Street Food station serving a vegetarian dish was also impressively decorated.
Guests were invited to enter a hall where the official ceremony took place.
A stage with traditional Thai classical instruments and a booth displaying portraits of the Royal Thai family was ubiquitously decorated by white and yellow flowers.
The evening's Master of Ceremonies and the Representative of Thai Tourism in Israel, Mr. Imri Kalmann said that the evening not only marked the Kingdom's national day but was a tribute honouring the warm, longstanding friendship between the people of Thailand and Israel. A minute's silence was observed commemorating Her Majesty Queen Sirkit, the Queen Mother's demise followed by a short video in remembrance of Her Majesty and her lifelong.dedication to strengthen Thailand's foreign relations.
A brief video presentation introducing Thai cuisine and the "Thai Select" certification - a mark of authenticity awarded by Thailand's Ministry of Commerce. "Thai Select" certificates were awarded to restaurants recognized this year namely Nam Restaurant, Chatuchak Restaurant and Thai Street Food restaurant. A lucky draw was sponsored by Bangkok Airways and a video celebrating the growing people - to - people connections between Thailand and Israel as we anticipate the digital era in the future was shown.
Certificates of Appreciation were awarded by the Ambassador to outstanding individuals and groups who have made meaningful contributions to the welfare and mutual benefit of relations between Thailand and Israel. One of the recipients, Mr. Dov Kalmann, the Master of Ceremonies father, has been the Royal Thai Embassy's Marketing Manager for many years.
The Ambassador started his speech saying that Thai national day is celebrated on the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, who is widely revered for his lifelong dedication as a working Monarch. The impact of His Majesty's work has been felt beyond our borders. In recognition of his global legacy, the United Nations annually designated the 5th of December as World Soil Day to honour his contribution to sustainable soil management laying the foundation for agricultural prosperity in Thailand. Under the vision of King Rama ix, the foundations of agricultural cooperation between Thailand and Israel were laid by the establishment of the Hoob Krapong Learning Centre in 1955 by the Government of Israel based on the MASHAV model thus becoming the first concrete partnership between our two nations. Thousands of young Thai farmers have participated in internship programmes in Israel under the auspices of MASHAV. Today, of the 60 000 Thai workers in Israel, 45 000 work in agriculture, nearly double the number before the 7th of October 2023.
In our hearts we have not forgotten the 46 Thai farm workers who lost their lives nor the 31 that were brutally taken hostage by Hamas. Yesterday, our Thai compatriot, Mr. Sudhisak Rinthalak's body was returned. We also await the return of the last remaining dead Israeli hostage. Let this be a moment to serve as a turning point - one where Thailand and Israel can move forward and renew our focus on advancing cooperation in science, technology and innovation.
Recent Holocaust research has revealed that between 1940 and 1941 the Consul of Siam in Marseilles issued hundreds of visas and travel documents to Jewish individuals. As we enter the 72nd year of diplomatic relations our cooperation continues to flourish. This enduring friendship is also reflected by the four elephants donated in 1994 by the Royal Thai government at the request of the late Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
Our Embassy continues to advance cultural ties as demonstrated by the initiative of book diplomacy featuring works of His Majesty King Rama vi which was donated to the National Library of Israel. and the provision of special equipment to Keren Or Jerusalem Centre for Blind Children. This year, we expect to welcome 400 000 Israeli visitors to Thailand, a 41% increase from last year. The Thai Tourism Authority's reputation for being open and inclusive, commits to promote tourism for the LGBT community, as in our country everyone is welcome.
In 2024, bilateral trade surpassed $1.33 billion and we are confident that this upward trajectory will continue. We are committed in our support for Thai food producers in accessing the kosher market. Thailand is one of south east Asia's leading industrial economies. and we warmly invite Israeli investors to join us as we advance into the digital era. Thailand stands ready to support new ventures in trade, investment, startups, science, technology and innovation due to our strategic geographic location, skilled workforce, pro - investment policies, generous tax incentives and investor friendly environment.
We are honoured to host a high profile delegation from Naresuan University, present this evening, to advance in the commercialization of science and technology. Later this week we will welcome a delegation from Thailand' Space Agency.
Lastly, allow me to extend my heartfelt wishes for the health and happiness of King Rama the 10th as well as for the President of the State of Israel and for the continued prosperity and enduring friendship between our nations.
Guests were invited to raise their glasses in a toast.
Mr. Israel Raif, Honorary Consul of Thailand in Israel and Chairman of Afcon Holdings and Shlomo Real Estate gave a brief address stating his commitment to building stronger ties between Israel and Thailand. He also said that he was thankful for the return of all the hostages and eagerly awaiting the return of the last dead hostage.
The national anthems of both countries were sung followed by a performance of classical Thai music by a duo.
The George's Food and Beverage Manager, Mr. Michael Barsky supervised the service. An array of Thai food including chicken in mild coconut curry with potatoes and peanuts, crispy rice served with tofu with lime, ginger and peanuts, tender grilled chicken accompanied by a mild curry sauce, crispy rolls filled with mixed vegetables and glass noodles, fresh pomelo with herbs, nuts and lime dressing and for dessert sticky rice and mango ice cream was offered.
Among the many guests which included Ambassadors, State Officials, Diplomats was, H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel - Chief of State Protocol, Mr. Shlomo Eshed - President of Israel's Precious Stones and Diamond Exchange, H.E. Mr. Michael Ronen - a retired diplomat having previously worked in the Foreign Ministry's Asian Division, Mr. Gideon Thaler - President of Tal Aviation, Prof. Yossi Beilin - former Minister of Justice, Mr. Ran Rahav - Honorary Consul of the Marshall Islands in Israel and Chairman of Ran Rahav Communications, Mr. Avi Nakash - a businessman, Ms. Sabine Segal - The Israel Export Institute's CEO for International Business, Lt. Col (Res) Tiran Attia - CEO of an NGO "Special in Uniform", Ms. Nili Block - Self Defence Workshop Motivational Speaker, Rabbi Yanki Hoffman - Carrefour's Head of Kosher Regulation in Israel, Mr. Ron Doron - Vice President of Israel - Asia Chamber of Commerce, Mr. and Mrs. Moris Reyna - Mrg Group and Honorary Chairman of the Israel - Turkey Business Forum, Assoc. Prof. Sarintip Tantanee - Acting President of Naresuan University, Dr. Charatdao Kongmuang - Naresuan University's Vice President for Student, Alumni and Art - Culture Development and last but not least Asst. Prof. Kumpon Subsomboon - Naresuan University's Dean of Engineering.
Diplomacy.co.il wishes His Majesty King Rama 10th a long and good life, prosperity and peace for Thailand and our best wishes to the Ambassador and Embassy staff for having hosted a national day with inimitable flavour and ambiance.
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On Thursday, 27th of November 2025 the Ambassador of Panama to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Ezra and Mrs. Linda Cohen, hosted a large reception at the Waldorf Astoria, Jerusalem.
Panama celebrates two independence days because at different points in history, the country was dominated by two different nations - once by Spain and then again by Colombia. On the 28th of November 1821, Panama declared independence from Spanish rule and once again on the 3rd of November 1903 Panama again declared independence from Colombia.
In the elegantly decorated lobby of the Waldorf Astoria there were 7 food stations manned by chefs with. A large selection of salads, chicken with a peanut butter sauce, a selection of 6 smoked and cured salmon, spare ribs off the bone served with pav buns, chicken schnitzel, steak entrecote and spare ribs served with mustard and sweet potato puree. Wine from Psagot with decorative labels honouring Panama's independence was also served.
Upon entering there were two exhibits. The first exhibit was by an Israeli company, Watergen, based in Petach Tikva who also has a plant in Panama producing both water machines and highly purified water that is converted from humidity. The other exhibit was art and Judaica by Zelda Gallery in Jerusalem.
After an hour of socializing in the lobby and having photographs taken with the Ambassador against a colourfully designed backdrop with !Viva Panama as well as the flags, guests were cordially invited to take their place in the banquet hall for the official ceremony where every seat had a miniature Panamese flag.
A short and colourful documentary of Panama was shown.
The Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Anthony Raphael Escoboza, CEO and founder of the Esco Media Group with branches in Miami and Herzliya warmly welcomed everyone present, starting his speech stating that Panama is a small nation in size with an immense history, diversity and vision. It is a country that connects oceans, cultures, and opportunities, a natural bridge where tradition and modernity coexist. Our identity is marked by the joy of our people, the richness of our folklore, the beauty of our lands and the strength of a spirit that always looks forward. Our countries collaborate in trade, technology, education and culture strengthening the ties that unite us.
Ms. Gila Gamliel, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology representing the State of Israel, stated that Israel and Panama enjoy a warm relationship since Panama recognized Israel after its second month of independence. Mashav, Israel's Foreign Ministry's International Development Aid Agency has trained many doctors from Panama and recently seen a significant rise of doctors specializing and training here. In the fields of cyber, tourism and innovation there is intense collaboration. The Panama Canal serves as a conduit between east and west. On the 1st of January 2020 a free trade agreement (FTA) came into effect and hopefully within the not too distant future a memorandum of understanding between my Ministry and Panama will be signed. There is a great deal of Israeli tourism especially in the south of Panama where tourists are drawn by your beautiful beaches. Our relationship is essentially based on trust which has of late intensified greatly. Immediately after the gruesome attack on the 7th of October 2025, Panama unequivocally was one of the first countries to condemn the attack. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Panama who is currently serving on the United Nations Security Council as a non - permanent member for the 2025 - 2026 term.
Recently Israel experienced an emotional trajectory in our country's history namely the return of hostages captured on the 7th of October 2023 however we still have a duty to see the full completion thereof by the return of the remaining two dead hostages still held in Gaza. Panama is a moral example to the world being the only Meso and Latin country that has not recognized a Palestinian state. Panama also displays a non zero policy of tolerance towards antisemitism. Together we will continue working together striving side by side. A Presidential State visit to Israel by Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino Quintero has tentatively been scheduled for 2026.
Yerushalayim Shel Zahav in Ladino was sung by Ariel Toro with accompaniment.
The Master of Ceremonies spoke again saying that in the darkest moments, there are those who illuminate the way and today we honour a group of Panamanian sons who in the midst of the horror of October the 7th, chose to stay in Israel tirelessly caring for the injured and saving lives. Three Panamanian doctors currently doing the specialization in Israel were called to the stage and presented with a certificate of appreciation and a painting of Judaica by Yaakov from Zelda Gallery, inscribed with the words ":Am Israel Chai" by the Ambassador. They were honoured with a standing ovation.
Mr. Ezra Cohen, Ambassador of Panama to Israel opened his address by acknowledging his thanks and gratitude to his country's President Jose Raul Mulino and Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martinez - Acha for the trust they have placed in me to strengthen the important relationship between Panama and Israel. Panama is a country that was born with a mission to connect the world, oceans, trade, cultures and people. Today Panama is connecting Israel with Latin America and visa versa. Our friendship did not begin today. In 1947, Panama supported the creation of the State of Israel. Today we cooperate in Water, Agriculture, Technology, Health, Education and have a strategic relationship based on shared values and heart. For more than 150 years, the Jewish community of Panama has been a pillar in the country's development shown by its entrepreneurs, educators, builders of institutions and leaders in the field of finance, commerce and charity. They have not only strengthened Panama but stood with Israel perpetually displaying their love, pride and loyalty. Tonight Panama honours them. On the tragic day of October the 7th, Panama showed moral clarity by standing with Israel. We also recognize the 16 Panamanian doctors we honour this evening who remained in Israel during the war serving in hospitals with courage, professionalism and compassion. With a view to the future Panama's vision is one of ambition, a direct flight between Panama and Israel, investment in both directions, Israeli technology in Panama, Panamanian presence in Israel, scholarships, agricultural training programs, public health cooperation and water management exchanges. We are building not only projects but a partnership for generations. This year we also celebrate our national football team qualifying for the Fifa World cup. This is our national sport Football - and celebration! Thank you to my team at the Embassy for your dedication, loyalty and endless effort. Viva Panama! Viva Israel! Thank you!
A short movie about the Panamanian National Football team was shown.
The Panama March led by Ariel Toro was enthusiastically sung by everyone waving their miniature flags.
The Master of Ceremonies said that the Panama Canal is one of the greatest engineering marvels and a symbol of history, vision and global connection as this canal not only unites oceans but cultures and opportunities, 6% of global trade passes through our canal.
A brief movie of the Canal was shown.
He said that a few months ago the Embassy had the honour of receiving a small group of our Spanish - speaking brothers who were taken as hostages on the gruesome day of October the 7th, 2023. Some were rescued and others had family in captivity. Their return home is a testament of hope,resilience and unity. Photos of the event were displayed on screen. Two hostages Luiz, Klara and Yosef Haim who was not present but represented by his Father came on stage.
To celebrate friendship and hope Nevo Lev Ari from Air Europa generously donated two round trip tickets between Israel and Panama. A raffle on screen followed and the two victorious winners were Eyal Bluer and Juan Carabello.
A list of the evening's sponsors were shown on screen including Elbit, Safra Bank and many commercial, cultural institutions as well as individuals.
Among the many guests were Latin and Meso American ambassadors, diplomats, state officials, Mr. Moshe Lion - Mayor of Jerusalem, Ms. Fllleur Hassan - Nahum - Jerusalem previous Deputy Mayor and currently Special Envoy for Innovation, appointed by Israel's Foreign Minister, Mr. Gideon Sa'ar, Rabbi Kalman Samuels - Founder and President of Shalva, Mr. Jonathan Pollard - an Israeli former intelligence analyst, Mr. Rafi Elul - a former politician, Mr. Rami Levi - CEO of Rami Levi Hashikma Marketing which is Israel's third largest retail supermarket chain and the country's first discount store, Mr. Gabriel Hayon - Chairman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Moti Kozahinof - a Property Developer, Mr. Yitzhak Eldan - President of the Ambassadors Club of Israel and previously Israel's Chief of State Protocol who also served as Ambassador to Unesco, Mr. Yoram Naor - Vice President of the Ambassadors Club of Israel, Consul General of Belize in Israel, Vice President of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Maor Ifrah - the Foreign Ministry's Advisor to the Director General, Mr. Doron Afik - CEO of Afek and Co. Law Firm, Mr. Steve Elbaz - CEO of Watergen, Mr. Boris Mirkin - a Board Member of Watergen, Mr. Jeremy Diamond - Watergen's Sales Manager, Rabbi Yissachar Dov and Rabbanit Ashira Krakowski - The Orthodox Union in Israel's Director of Kashrut and the latter a Dietician, Ms. Giorgina Litvak - Sales Manager of the Benjamin Hotel in Herzliya Pituach, Mrs. Leah Breziner who lives both in Panama City and Jerusalem, Mr. Mauricio Dimant - Coordinator of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Entrepreneurship and Innovation with latin America, Capt (Res) Tal Eden - Senior Advisor to Naval and Offshore Solutions and last but most certainly not least Dr. Caballero and Mrs. Jhyvela Lopez and their baby daughter from Panama who is a doctor specializing in urology at Tel Hashomer and who valiantly served our wounded after the 7th of October.
The ceremony ended by the singing of Panama and Israel's national anthems and guests were invited to the lobby where dessert, fresh fruit and wine were served and intermingled with attractive ladies wearing Panamese colorful traditional dresses.
https://www.diplomacy.co.il/ & https://diariojudio.com/ salute the President and Panamese people and expresses its deep appreciation, thanks and gratitude to H.E. Mr. Ezra and Mrs. Linda Cohen and the staff embassy for their gracious and inimitable hospitality and for an unforgettable evening of conviviality and friendship.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
