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On Thursday, 5 February 2026, at the Dan Hotel Tel Aviv, a reception in honour of the 33rd anniversary of the "Day of Establishment" was hosted by H.E. Ms Barbara Mestonova, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the State of Israel.
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Peter Princ, the Ambassador's P.A., warmly welcomed everyone present, introducing the Ambassador and Ms. Simona Halperin, Deputy Director General of the Foreign Ministry's Department for Europe representing the State of Israel.
The Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to Israel, H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova stated in her succinct and palpable address that all guests present mean a great deal and their presence is highly valued. Slovakia and Israel's relations are based on trust and are especially dynamic in the fields of education, defence and culture. A great deal of cooperation and synergy is found in the relationship between Slovakia's Defence establishment and Israel's Aerospace Industry. A couple of days ago the last Israeli hostage was returned and at last we can breathe relief. I have watched your relief and all of you I consider to be heroes. She valiantly concluded her speech by "Long Life to Slovakia and Long Life to Israel".
Ms. Simona Halperin who delivered the "welcome remarks" on behalf of Minister, Mr Zeev Elkin, who was scheduled to attend but delayed due to a cabinet meeting. She said that the 1st of January represents the birth of a sovereign modern state. Slovakia and Israel are nations of an extraordinarily large spirit sharing resilient democracies, thriving economies deeply anchored in each respective heritage, representing tradition and innovation, revering ancestral roots and standing at the vanguard of a modern age. Prior to World War 11, Slovakia was home to 130 000 Jews. Slovakia has demonstrated moral leadership in its approach to historical memory. The Slovak Republic's establishment of a Holocaust museum in Sered, the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, the governmental apology for the Jewish codex as well as holocaust education of future Slovak generations is a testament to your country's commitment. The Synergy between Israel's technological ingenuity and Slovakia's industrial prowess in the automotive and high tech sectors provides a rewarding foundation for our shared future. The vitality of our bond is best seen in the "human glue", namely in tourism and cultural exchange. With the expansion of direct flights, our citizens are discovering each other's landscapes, mirroring the highest diplomatic level. Our President, Isaac Herzog's state visit, preceded by his Father in 1991, President Chaim Herzog, symbolizes these achievements. Jerusalem hosts the Slovak Institute providing a home for Slovak culture and diplomacy. To the Slovak Republic - Happy Independence Day!
A toast was taken by the Ambassador and Ms. Halperin against a backdrop of a poster of the Bratislava castle and Jerusalem's iconic "Mosque of the Golden Dome", accompanied by an arrangement of flowers in the Sovak national colours of blue, white and red.
After the speeches a sumptuous buffet of Slovak pierogi,tortellini, chicken breast, grilled fish, roast beef, a selection of salads, and scrumptious desserts including blinches with strawberry coulis were served.
Ambassadors, diplomats, military attaches, state and defense force officials, Slovak expatriates, H.E. Dr. Alexander Ben Zvi (retired), a former Israeli ambassador to the Slovak Republic , Mr. Milan Vrbovský new Director of the of the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem; Israel , Dr. Eva Gross from Nove Zamky ; Dr. Eva Kellner from Galanta and Ms. Ayala Meitav, Senior Project Manager of International Relations for Tel Aviv's Municipality were present.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates H.E. Ms Barbara Mestanova and the staff embassy on her country's 33rd anniversary of independence and many thanks for a memorable evening of Slovak hospitality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Boonyarit Vichienpuntu
.President Herzog Receives Diplomatic Credentials of First Residential Ambassador of Fiji and New Ambassador of Thailand to Israel
On February 3, 2026, President Isaac Herzog received the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassadors to Israel of Fiji and Thailand in formal ceremonies at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
Upon receiving the diplomatic credentials of the first-ever residential Ambassador of Fiji to Israel, Mr. Jesoni Vitusagavulu, President Herzog congratulated Fiji on its historic decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem as a significant step in the development of bilateral relations between Israel and Fiji.
Earlier, President Herzog received the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassador of Thailand, Mr. Boonyarit Vichienpuntu. President Herzog praised the strong relations between Israel and Thailand and cited new opportunities for cooperation in the fields of innovation, agriculture, and tourism.
In his remarks at the ceremony, President Herzog said, “I am honored to welcome the first-ever Ambassador of Fiji to Israel in Jerusalem. This is a fantastic moment, and we are very moved. Fiji is a dear friend of Israel, and we pray for and love your country. The future of so many important global issues depends on the Pacific region, including in the maritime sphere, climate, and energy.”
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Fiji, H.E. Mr. Jesoni Vitusagavulu
Ambassador Vitusagavulu of Fiji conveyed the best wishes of the people of Fiji to Israel, saying "I am honored to be the first resident Ambassador of Fiji to Israel. We share our prayers for security and peace for Israel, and we stand together with Israel."
Welcoming Ambassador Vichienpuntu of Thailand to Israel, President Herzog stated, “Israelis love Thailand. During the war, due to the tragedies that occurred, Thai citizens resident in Israel became a part of our family. There are many opportunities to enhance our bilateral relations in so many spheres, including economic ties, science and technology, and tourism.”
Diplomacy.co.il and debateforpeace.org welcome Ambassadors of Fiji and Thailand to Israel and offer our best wishes for an enjoyable tenure and great success in advancing diplomatic ties between the 2 nations at all levels.
Photos: Maayan Toaf / GPO
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On Monday, the 18th of January 2026 the President elect of the Republic of Honduras, H.E. Mr. Nasry Asfura met his counterpart, H.E. Mr. Gidon Sa'ar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel.
An official meeting held in Jerusalem at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs included Ms. Maria Dolores Aguero, Honduras's newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gil Haskel, Israeli Chief of State Protocol, Mr. Itai Bartov, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Chief of Staff for Foreign Policy, Mr. Yinam Cohen, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's Director of the Department of Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Amir Ofek, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Latin America and the Caribbean and Mr Nadav Goren, Israel's newly appointed Ambassador to Honduras.
H.E. Mr Gidon Sa'ar, Israel's Foreign Minister warmly welcomed and congratulated the Honduran President elect on his historic election victory saying that this victory will be a turning point for Honduras. We appreciate your decision to visit us and the United States before taking office. Relations between Israel and Honduras have historically been good but unfortunately in recent years the deep and enduring friendship between our nations has declined. I know that you are a leader of great conviction and am confident that your victory will restore Honduras as one of our closest friends. Many thanks to you for having announced the fact that Honduras will receive the credentials of our Ambassador soon after your swearing in ceremony. On Israel's behalf, we will do everything possible to assist your country in any way we can. Currently Latin America is experiencing a significant political shift as it is swiftly moving towards being a beacon of freedom and protector of Western civilization. This indeed is a momentous time and we stand united with all freedom loving nations including Honduras. In conclusion, I look forward to a future of close cooperation between our nations.
The President elect of Honduras, H.E. Mr. Nasry Asfura responded saying that it is a pleasure to visit Israel again and strengthen the 77 year old relationship that Honduras has enjoyed with Israel. This new era will enhance our relations and strengthen our bond of friendship in the fields of investment, technology, water, agriculture and cybersecurity. We are lovers of peace thus committed to building a better future based on peace, tranquility and prosperity. We are confident that our new administration will bring much well-being to Honduras and in turn will know who Honduras's true friends and allies are.
After the President elect's meeting and press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs he proceeded to meet the President and Prime Minister of Israel as well as executives of Israeli companies.
Diplomacy.co.il wishes President elect Nasry Asfura an abundance of success and best wishes in strengthening the bilateral relations between Honduras and Israel.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Namaste Shalom!
The Embassy of India, Tel Aviv, celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day on 26 January 2026. The day was marked with a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Embassy, attended by members of the Indian community and friends of India. The Ambassador read excerpts from the President of India’s address and highlighted the growing India–Israel strategic partnership and people-to-people ties. A short cultural programme followed the ceremony.
In the evening, a reception hosted by the Ambassador was attended by Minister of Culture and Sports, Mr. Miki Zohar, diplomats, senior officials, and community leaders. The event included speeches, a showcase of the ‘One District - One Product’ exhibition, and cultural performances by Indian and Israeli artists, reflecting the richness of India’s heritage.
India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations
The Embassy of India, Tel Aviv, celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day in Israel on 26 January, 2026. This Republic Day marks 76 years from the commencement of the Indian Constitution.
The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated in Israel with a flag-hoisting ceremony at the India House on the morning of 26 January, 2026. Members of the Indian community and friends of India joined the celebrations in large numbers. The event started with the unfurling of the tricolour by the Ambassador of India, H.E. Mr J. P. Singh, followed by a rendition of the national anthem. The Ambassador read out excerpts of the President of India's Republic Day address and spoke about the growing India-Israel strategic partnership as well as the deepening of people-to-people ties. This was followed by a short cultural programme.
In the evening, the Ambassador hosted a formal reception at the Dan Tel Aviv Hotel, attended by Israel’s Minister of Culture and Sports Mr. Miki Zohar, public figures, Ambassadors, and senior representatives of Israeli society, including Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Former Ambassador of India to Israel, Naor Gilon, and former Consul General of Mumbai, Kobi Shoshani, Mr. Shai Cohen Senior Vice President of Elbit Systems ; Jaffa Port CEO Kobi Yardeni; representatives of the Tel Aviv municipality Mr. Eliav Belizovsky Ms. Ayala Meitav, Senior Project Manager of International Relations for Tel Aviv's Municipality, Ariella Rosenthal from Ashdod Municipality and Olga Lurie from Netanya Municipality; and the Mayor of Or Akiva, Simcha Yosipov,Yona Bartal, representative of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, Ephraim Fortis, Founder, President, and CEO of Open Sky : Also present were members of the Indian community among them; Benny Benjamin, Zipora Meir, Jessica and Isaac G. Thangjom, David Nigrekar and Reena Pushkarna the acclaimed restaurateur. The event featured ceremonial speeches, an exhibition of traditional items from various regions of India, and musical performances by Ayala Lev, Pratibha Sharma, Daniel White, and Dr. Ishan Dubey. The artists also performed India’s national song, “Vande Mataram.”
In his remarks, the Ambassador spoke about India's achievements in the last year as well as highlighted the various landmarks of the India-Israel success story, including the signing of the Bilateral Investment Agreement, Terms of Reference of the Free-Trade Agreement, and MoU on Defence cooperation. The Ambassador underscored India beliefs in two of its timeless philosophies of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ - ‘the world is one family’ - and ‘Vishwabandhu’ – ‘India as a friend to the world’. He also underlined the importance of marching towards making self reliant India - ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ - and making India a developed India by 2047 - a ‘Viksit Bharata’ under the leadership of India’s visionary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Speaking on behalf of the Israeli government, Minister of Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar: “India is far more than a good friend to Israel — it is a strategic partner we can truly trust, built on shared values, trust, and long-term interests.” “The Joint Action Plan for 2026 is our roadmap forward. It reflects not only what we have achieved together, but our shared commitment to work side by side in facing future challenges and new opportunities.”
“India stood with Israel during the massacre of October 7, and Israel will appreciate that forever. We did not start this war, we did not want it — but we will always defend ourselves.”
Emblematic of India’s artistic depth, the Embassy also hosted an exhibition of ‘One District-One Product’ showcasing the indigenous artifacts from more than 20 states and Union territories of India. The exhibition comprised of handicrafts, paintings, textiles etc bringing the unique crafts, skills, and creative traditions rooted in each district into the spotlight.
An illustration of the cultural heritage of India was also witnessed in the event where Indian and Israeli artists came together to perform a range of pieces, including a jugalbandi and India’s national song, ‘Vande Mataram’ to the wide appreciation of all present.
Credit for the Pictures: Embassy of India, Danny Golan & Silvia G Golan
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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
