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On Tuesday, 11 November, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Stefaan and Ms Natuka Thijs hosted a reception honouring King's Day and commemorating Armistice Day at the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation in Tel Aviv
The ambiance was vibrant with enthusiastic guests and the lobby decorated with Belgium's national colours against the backdrop of a large colourful screen.
Ms. Elka Pattyn, the Embassy's Political Counsellor was Master of Ceremonies welcoming everyone present. She mentioned that the choice of venue is a message coupled by the concept of peace which leads to understanding.
Mr. Nadav Tamir, responsible for International Relations at the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation apologised that the Centre's Chairman, Mr. Chemi Peres could not be present. He also thanked the Ambassador for hosting King's Day at the Centre. He added that Poppies Anemone, known in Israel as Kalaniyot, being Israel's national flower also was symbolic and relevant.
Ms. Pattyn mentioned that it is man's moral responsibility to remember the past, she quoted World War 1 most known poem, "In Flanders Fields", written by a Canadian surgeon, Lt. Col. John Mccrae. It was recited and accompanied by music played against the backdrop of a large screen displaying colourful images.
The Kingdom of Belgium's Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Stefaan Thijs warmly welcomed all guests. We gather on this occasion because the 15th of November, Belgium celebrates King's Day. Belgium is a federal parliamentary, constitutional monarchy. King Phillipe joined the AirForce and qualified as a fighter pilot, he also completed commando and parachutist training. Today we mark the 11th of November which is Armistice Day, we pause to remember the end of World War 1, 107 years ago. For Europe and Belgium, peace was hard won as 15 - 20 million people lost their lives. The carnage and trauma became a symbol of humanity's madness. The fields around Ypres in West Flanders witnessed unimaginable suffering as it was the heart of the Western Front. The war's memory surrounded our childhood, rows of white gravestones scattered across the landscape. From those fields and through Mccrae's poem, the poppy became the enduring symbol of memory. Since the 7th of October 2023 the People of Israel and the region have endured terrible suffering, atrocities, terrorism, warfare, loss and trauma and thousands have perished. I have seen the pain of Israeli families, the despair of the relatives of hostages and the desperate faces of children in Gaza. Since my arrival in July 2024, I have visited the Nova site several times. To my surprise I learned that poppies also grow in the Gaza envelope becoming a symbol of remembrance. That connection inspired tonight's event, a dark chapter of Belgium's history finding an echo in the pain of this region.
Belgium and Israel share more than one might surmise. Both are medium - sized nations of around 10 million people. Belgium's history shows that friendship alone is not enough. We learned that stability comes from embedding ourselves in rules-based international frameworks. After World War 11, Belgium became a champion of multilateralism and European integration. Today, Israel and the wider Middle East face similar crossroads - a chance for renewal from the rubble of conflict and hatred. What is needed is brave and visionary leadership that transforms military logic into sustainable diplomacy addressing the root of conflict and building structures of cooperation so that war becomes implausible. My heartfelt thanks to Chemi Peres and the entire team for welcoming us here. This Centre embodies the spirit of remembrance and renewal we wish to express this evening. I would like to express my gratitude to two world class artists and friends, Noa Achinoam Nini and Daniel Ost. Mr. Ost is Belgium's most renowned floral artist and a true ambassador of our country's creativity. He flew to Israel especially for this occasion. Daniel has transformed our shared vision into a living work of art. His installation centres on the poppy, linking the horrors of Flanders Fields to those of the Gaza envelope serving as a reminder that from devastation, beauty and meaning can emerge. My profound thanks to Noa Achinoam Nini, thank you dear Noa for so graciously agreeing to perform our anthems this evening. In conclusion I would like us to raise our glasses to His Majesty King Phillipe of Belgium and to the hope and future of this beautiful country and remarkable region, "Leve De Koning/Vive le Roi/Es Lebe des Konig".
Noa Achinoam Nini, spoke briefly quoting President Shimon Peres saying that "Optimists and Pessimists both die but live differently". Never has Israel suffered so much grief, through this grief we will grow and no longer be blind to others' pain. She won the 2009 Eurovision with a song entitled "There Must Be Another Way" which she sang unaccompanied. Thereafter she sang the Kingdom of Belgium's national anthem, "La Brabanconne" followed by Israel's anthem, "Hatikva".
Ms. Adi Farjon Israel, Israel's Foreign Ministry's Director of the Central European Department spoke saying that it was a privilege to join the Embassy of Begium's King's Day celebratory reception, a day that symbolizes unity, continuity and national pride. For Israelis, the past two years have been marked by immense pain and resilience following the tragedy that occured on the 7th of October 2023. As in the red poppy becoming a symbol of remembrance, so too the flowers blooming in the kibbutzim in the Gaza envelope stand as a gentle and powerful reminder that from the soil of tragedy, beauty and resilience can emerge. We are elated that Daniel Ost has contributed to this celebration as flowers are a universal language of beauty, harmony and hope reminding us that in times of darkness, renewal and hope can follow. Culture can be a bridge between nations and thus it is painful when culture becomes a casualty of politics. We were saddened by the cancellation of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra's concert in Belgium because its conductor was an Israeli. The Belgian Prime Minister's attendance at the concert thereafter in Germany reflected a spirit of dialogue. We cannot ignore the rising expression of antisemitism, anti-Israel and attempts to delegitimize the State of Israel ubiquitous in Europe today.Belgium is home to a vibrant Jewish community and economic relations continue to thrive between Israel and Belgium. Let us focus on what unites us namely our shared democratic values, our belief in human dignity and our hope for a safer and better future.
Daniel Ost's floral arrangement of red poppies on a mound of grass was unveiled which drew much attention.
Belgium beer, soft drinks, chips, small buns with assado and a cabbage salad was served followed by chocolate desserts.
Upon departure guests were presented with a small package of two artisanal chocolates called Dvir's Chocolate. The late Dvir Karp who in 1996 specialized in his profession as a chocolatier in Belgium was one of the first chocolatiers in Israel. On the 7th of October 2025, Dvir was murdered in his home in Kibbutz Re'im while protecting his children from terrorists who had entered their house.
Many ambassadors, diplomats, high ranking state officials, Mr. Michel Kichka, an illustrious Israeli caricaturist born in Belgium, Mr. Ehud Olmert, former Prime Minister of Israel and Mayor of Jerusalem, people doing business with Belgium, member of Israel's Belgium community and a delegation of recent immigrants from Belarus studying at Kfar Hayarok representing the Model United Nations (MUN) included Dmitry Roumiantser, Vlad Shlyapintokh, Anna Samodumskaya and Aleksandra Sidareuka.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates H.E. Mr. Stefaan and Mrs. Natuka Thijs on King's Day. Thank you for a memorable reception embedded with a powerful message
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Ambassador of Costa Rica to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Antonio Lopez Escarre's birth, the Consul of Costa Rica and his wife, Mr. Nathan and Mrs. Limor Allalouf hosted a cocktail evening at the Norman hotel in Tel Aviv.
The atmosphere pulsated with joy and enthusiasm amidst laughter and animated conversation.
H.E. Mr. Antonio Lopez Escarre started his address by stating what a pleasure it was to stand before everyone this evening expressing his gratitude and thanks to Mr. Nathan and Mrs. Limor Allalouf for their generosity of spirit. On the 17th of October 1945, I was born in San Jose, Costa Rica and today I am celebrating my 80th birthday when President Trump Peace Plan is being signed. He presented the Costa Rican Honorary Consul with a certificate of merit recognizing 36 years of his work and dedication. This exemplary service also extends to his grandfather, Mr. Nathan J. Allalouf, his father, Mr. Jacob.N. Allalouf and his entire family who for the past 76 years have represented Costa Rica with consistent excellence. Their consistent effort to support the Costa Rican community in Israel shows how family values and teamwork can lead to meaningful achievements in business and community life. During the 12 day war with Iran, many Costa Ricans who wanted to escape the conflict were swiftly evacuated. He concluded by presenting the Honorary Consul with a large bouquet of flowers.
The Honorary Consul, Mr. Nathan Allalouf started his speech by raising a toast to honour the Ambassador's on his 80th birthday. We raise the toast to the prosperity of both our countries, to the depth of our partnership and to our shared inspiration for peace and quality of life throughout the world. I was impressed by your work to promote a free trade agreement between Costa Rica and Israel, to strengthen agricultural industrial, scientific and tourism partnerships and innovative cooperation. In Jewish tradition, it is said that eighty is the age of heroic strength which will enable you to face every challenge with courage and wisdom. It is a rare and moving honour for myself and my family to receive this recognition and it is dedicated to my grandfather, Nathan J. and to my late Father Jacob. N. as well as to my family who continued the legacy quietly and with humility. Our efforts have never ceased in times of calm and challenge to support Costa Rican citizens and to advance economic, cultural and diplomatic ties.. I offer heartfelt thanks to my Mother, Margot and Wife, Limor, my Sisters Mati and Cilly and to my Brother, Daniel. Warm wishes to Consul General Mr. Alfonso Murillo as he begins his new mission in Israel after serving for four years in Abu Dhabi. My heartfelt thanks to the Ambassador and to the Embassy of Costa Rica for your trust, partnership and our shared journey. Thank you from the bottom of my heart - Pura Vida.
On behalf of the Ambassadors Club, Mr. Yoram Naor, Honorary Consul of Belize and Deputy Director of the Ambassador's Club congratulated the Ambassador best wishes on becoming an octogenarian.
A selection of whiskey and wine as well as beautifully decorated savoury and sweet canapes were served.
Among the auspicious guests were Ambassadors from Panama, Paraguay, Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Vietnam , Dominican Republic, Peru,and Ecuador, others diplomats, Mrs. Allalouf, the Matriarch of the Allalouf family and Mother of Costa Rica's Honorary Consul, Mr. Gil Miller, CEO of Allalouf Shipping, Mr. Adam Levene, the Foreign Ministry's Director of Economic Relations with Latin American and Africa, Mrs. Amit Fogel, Paraguay's Honorary Consul, Mr. Yitzhak Eldan, former Chief of State Protocol and Israel's former Ambassador to Unesco, Mr Gabriel Hayon, Chairman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Gil Etzion, President of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Moris Reyna of the MRG Group and Honorary Chairman of the Israel - Turkey Business Council, Ms. Sarit Fishbane, Director of the International Relations Department of the Federation of the Israeli Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce , Mr. Marian Cohen, President of C Mer Industries , Mr. Stanley Morais El Al's Director of International Affairs, and last but not least, Mr. Yaron Liberman, General Manager of the Norman.
Diplomacy.co.il & www.diariojudio.com congratulate H.E. Mr.Antonio Lopez Escarre a long and good life and gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Nathan and Limor Allalouf for a memorable evening.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Fiji’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at MFA @ Silvia G Golan
Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar delivered remarks on 17th September at the reception held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in honor of the opening of Fiji’s Embassy in Jerusalem.
The reception followed a meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar and Fiji’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, together with Fiji’s Minister of Defense Pio Tikoduadua and Minister of Information Tabuya Lynda. Both Minister Sa’ar and Prime Minister Rabuka delivered remarks at the event.
The opening of the embassy follows the understandings reached during Minister Sa’ar’s meeting with Prime Minister Rabuka in February on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar delivered remarks on 17th September at the reception held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in honor of the opening of Fiji’s Embassy in Jerusalem. @ Silvia G Golan
From Minister Sa’ar’s remarks:
“Thank you, Prime Minister, for your bold, moral and historic decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem, our ancient and eternal capital.
Jerusalem, is the beating heart of the Jewish people.
It is not just a city.
Jerusalem is a symbol.
It represents the fulfillment of more than a three-thousand-year-old dream.
The archeological findings in the City of David show beyond any doubt – the Jewish people are indigenous to this ancient land.
We were here a long, long time ago. Three thousand years ago in the time of King David – and before that.
And we are here now, to stay, forever.
The connection between Israel and Fiji is deep.
It is based on shared biblical values:
Ancient traditions of faith and love for Jerusalem.
We have an alliance of believers between Jews and Christians – based on deep faith and biblical roots.
We are opening a new, historic chapter in our relations.
Prime Minister – with what you did today – you laid a stone in the ancient walls of Jerusalem. In the living history of this city.
We greatly appreciate it.
I am sure that our friendship will continue to grow even stronger.
It will serve as an example and inspiration for others.”
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President Herzog greeting Prime Minister Rabuka upon his arrival at the President’s Residence© GPO/Amos Ben Gershom
President Herzog meets with Prime Minister Rabuka of Fiji
President Herzog welcomed Prime Minister Rabuka and thanked him you on behalf of the nation of Israel for opening the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem.
(Communicated by the President's Spokesperson)
President Isaac Herzog today (Thursday, 18 September 2025), at the President’s Residence, met with the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji who was visiting Jerusalem for the opening of his nation’s embassy, along with several senior ministers in his government.
During the meeting, the President spoke of the breaking news of the attack on Israelis at the Allenby Crossing.
President Herzog welcomed the Prime Minister and said: “I want to thank you on behalf of the nation of Israel for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem yesterday, it's a big step. Bless you.”
He said, “This is not an easy day. We have just heard that Israeli citizens were shot at the bridge with Jordan because terrorists want to derail our relations with Jordan. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families, and we hope things will be better, and especially we want to see the hostages back.”
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PM Netanyahu meets with Fijian Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sitiveni Rabuka
During the meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked his Fijian counterpart for his steadfast support and stand alongside the State of Israel, and discussed regional diplomatic and security issues with him.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Wednesday, 17 September 2025), at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem, hosted Fijian Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked his Fijian counterpart for his steadfast support and stand alongside the State of Israel, and discussed regional diplomatic and security issues with him.
Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife were invited by Fijian Prime Minister Rabuka to visit Fiji.
Following the meeting, the two leaders will go to the festive opening of the Fijian Embassy in Jerusalem our capital.
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Jerusalem. September 19th 2025 PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka received The Friends of Zion Award
from left: Nir Kimhi, director of FOZ, Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji, the Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka
H.E Filipo Tarakinikini, the Republic of Fiji Ambassador to Israel, Daniel Voiczeck GM FOZ.
Photo credit David saad
PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka: " I am honored and excited to receive the Friends of Zion Award, One of the Most Prestigious Awards ".
PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka received The Friends of Zion Award. The evening at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem was attended by 300 guests, including ambassadors, diplomats, businessmen and other VIP.
The Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem hosted the event in honor of the PrimeMinister. The PrimeMinister received the Friends of Zion Award for his steadfast support of Israel these days and in appreciation for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem.
The Friends of Zion Award was established by the late Shimon Peres, Israel's 9th President and former International Chairman of FOZ. It has been given to over 25 world leaders, including former US President George Bush, former US President Donald Trump, and former Vice President Mike Pence.
PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka said: "I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Friends of Zion and Dr. Mike Evans for the meaningful recognition bestowed upon me. This honor is a reflection of the strong ties of friendship between Fiji and Israel, and it reaffirms our shared commitment to values such as freedom, peace, and cooperation. I am deeply thankful for this gesture, which inspires us to continue working toward a future of mutual respect and solidarity between our nations”.
Dr. Mike Evans, Founder of FOZ stated: “PrimeMinister of Fiji The Honorable Sitiveni Rabuka deserves recognition from Friends of Zion for his firm and determined support for Israel at crucial moments and for opening the Embassy in Jerusalem. The PM of Fiji Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly expressed his support for Israel's right to defend itself, condemning the October 7th attacks and expressing his commitment and support for Israel's security and right to defense. This courageous and consistent stance reflects a deep commitment to the values that Friends of Zion promotes and positions. PM Rabuka is a true friend of the people of Israel”.
The Friends of Zion Heritage Center was established in 2015, in the center of Israel’s capital Jerusalem, by founder Dr. Mike Evans, a number one best-selling author, and a Nobel Peace Prize nominee for a lifetime of combating antisemitism.
The Friends of Zion Heritage center is a Zionist platform dedicated to the fight against anti-Semitism and BDS and concerns itself with bolstering awareness for the historical support of the Christian friends of Israel. Their advanced Media Center holds dozens of events, activities, and press conferences in line with the FOZ museum's vision
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Hundreds of Christians to hold October 7 Remembrance Ceremony with Gaza Border Communities as Israel awaits news of end of two-year conflict
Feast of Tabernacles begins with visits to impacted kibbutzim, massacre sites . ICEJ funding seven major rebuilding projects in devastated villages of Western Negev
The annual Christian celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles, sponsored by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, will kick off on Monday (6 October) with a special Remembrance Ceremony in the Gaza border area with local community leaders to honor the more than 1,500 Israelis killed or abducted on October 7 exactly two years ago. The solidarity visit by over 600 Christians from more than 50 countries will take place as Israel awaits news that a ceasefire has finally been reached to end the Gaza conflict and release all the hostages in coming days.
The solidarity and remembrance gathering will held Monday morning on the Sapir College campus, and will feature local survivors of the Hamas massacres giving their personal accounts of the tragic events on Simchat Torah in 2023. Speakers will include Doron Libshtein, brother of Ofir Libshtein, the late mayor of Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council who was killed that morning defending his home village of Kfar Aza, and former MK Shai Hermesh, who survived the onslaught of terrorists at Kfar Aza.
The hundreds of Chrisitan supporters of Israel also will visit key sites connected to the Hamas atrocities, including the Nova music festival site and the ‘car graveyard’ near Tkuma.
In addition, the Christian delegations will see and hear how the devastated Israeli communities of the western Negev are slowly returning and rebuilding their lives after the October 7 terrorist invasion.
To help these battered communities recover, the Christian Embassy is currently funding seven major rebuilding projects in the Gaza border area, at a cumulative cost of over $6.8 million. These projects include:
* Completely rebuilding the destroyed youth activity center in Kibbutz Be’eri;
* Turning a retirement home in Be’eri into a trauma care and activity center for seniors;
* Repairing a kindergarten to serve as a childrens’ trauma center in Kfar Aza;
* Constructing an innovative music therapy center in Kfar Aza;
* Building a greenhouse classroom and learning center at a new agro-tech school in Sde Nitzan;
* Restoring and expanding an animal therapy petting zoo and horse ranch in Kibbutz Urim; and
* Building five large bomb shelters at new trauma centers in the Sha’ar HaNegev and Sdot Negev regions.
“We look forward to our Feast pilgrims being able to meet these special Israelis who have such amazing courage and resilience in living along the Gaza border, and especially at a time when these two very tough years of war might be ending,” said ICEJ President Dr Jürgen Bühler. “The Christian Embassy has committed to a series of major rebuilding projects to help our friends in the western Negev restore key facilities to enhance their communal life, with special emphasis on assisting youth and the elderly, as well as providing trauma care for all.”
The ICEJ’s Feast of Tabernacles will then move up to Jerusalem for four more days of events from Tuesday through Friday of this week. On Wednesday evening, the ICEJ will host a colorful solidarity event with numerous Israeli guests which will feature addresses by President Isaac Herzog, US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, and Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, plus a special awards ceremony with Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel to honor the seven nations that have opened embassies in Jerusalem (United States, Guatemala, Paraguay, Honduras, Kosovo, Papua New Guinea and Fiji). In a first, official representatives from all seven nations will be present on one stage for the occasion.
Other Feast highlights will include the popular Jerusalem March, which will take place in Sacher Park on Thursday afternoon, starting at 1:30 PM.
More than 1,500 Christians from over 70 nations have arrived in Israel to participate in the biblical festival of Sukkot, which has been staged by the Christian Embassy every year since 1980.
The ICEJ’s Feast 2025 constitutes the largest solidarity mission to Israel since the war began two years ago, and will feature large delegations from Western countries that have been increasingly critical of Israel, including Norway, France, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
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On Tuesday evening, the 16th of September 2025, on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Cypriot independence, the Ambassador of Cyprus to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Kornelios S. Korneliou hosted a reception at the Hilton, Tel Aviv.
Drawing from our lessons in history, we need to stand firm against any forms of Anti Semitsim that represent a threat to our societies and to democracy. Cyprus - Israel relations have intensified and flourished and today our bilateral relations include emergency response, energy, defence, healthcare, trade, investments, technology, innovation and tourism. A weekly 186 flights per week at the peak of the summer season including a "Haifa route" is yet another testament to the close ties between our peoples. In Cyprus there is a large and growing Israeli community enriching our society. In the wake of the 7th of October 2023, our partnership with Israel has become more important for regional stability and security. From the tragic outset following that horrendous day, Cyprus extends its solidarity to Israel, condemning Hamas, supporting the unconditional release of all hostages and recognizing Israel's right to self defence in line with international law. Through the creation of a maritime corridor for the transfer of humanitarian aid to Gaza, Cyprus has addressed and contributed to efforts in alleviating the dire situation for civilians in Gaza. Cyprus also served as a hub for the return of Israelis citizens and also for the evacuation of foreign citizens. The Ambassador concluded his address by extending his appreciation and thanks to Cyprus's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Leon Koffer and to all sponsors of the evening's event.
In the lobby preceding the banquet hall, the Embassy of Cyprus had a photographic exhibition of the Cypriot nation's most tragic episode namely the Turkish invasion of Cyprus which began on the 20th of July 1974 and progressed in two phases over the following month leading to the Turkish capture and occupation of the northern part on the island.
A number of large screens in the banquet hall showed a picturesque movie about Cyprus's geograghy, breathtaking tourist sites and the many opportunities for investors in the island.
A screen of an address given by the President of Israel, H. E. Mr. Isaac Herzog was shown.
The Ambassador of Cyprus to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Kornelios Korneliou, started his address by expressing his gratitude and welcoming everyone present. He also acknowledged the President of Israel's warm words that highlighted the strong ties and friendship between Israel and Cyprus. Today we remember the struggles of the Cypriot people on the road to independence. Sadly, this anniversary celebrating 65 years of Cypriot independence coincides with the continuous Turkish occupation of one third of the island nation's landmass since 1974. Cyprus is a vibrant democracy with a thriving economy and a well respected member of the European Union. The relationship between our peoples are rooted in deep historical ties, more than 53 000 Jewish refugees seeking a new beginning in the Holy Land fled to Cyprus serving as a transit point of their journey.
Drawing from our lessons in history, we need to stand firm against any forms of Anti Semitsim that represent a threat to our societies and to democracy. Cyprus - Israel relations have intensified and flourished and today our bilateral relations include emergency response, energy, defence, healthcare, trade, investments, technology, innovation and tourism. A weekly 186 flights per week at the peak of the summer season including a "Haifa route" is yet another testament to the close ties between our peoples. In Cyprus there is a large and growing Israeli community enriching our society. In the wake of the 7th of October 2023, our partnership with Israel has become more important for regional stability and security. From the tragic outset following that horrendous day, Cyprus extends its solidarity to Israel, condemning Hamas, supporting the unconditional release of all hostages and recognizing Israel's right to self defence in line with international law. Through the creation of a maritime corridor for the transfer of humanitarian aid to Gaza, Cyprus has addressed and contributed to efforts in alleviating the dire situation for civilians in Gaza. Cyprus also served as a hub for the return of Israelis citizens and also for the evacuation of foreign citizens. The Ambassador concluded his address by extending his appreciation and thanks to Cyprus's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Leon Koffer and to all sponsors of the evening's event.
The Cypriot Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, H.E. Mr. George Papanastasiou who arrived especially for the event and was accompanied by a delegation from his Ministry spoke briefly saying that it was his honour to be present at the event honouring Cyprus's 65th anniversary of independence. This day reminds us of the struggle and sacrifice of the Cypriot people - not only to achieve independence but in the face of overwhelming odds and continuing challenges, such as Turkey's illegal invasion and ongoing occupation of a third of our country. Here in Tel Aviv among many friends we also celebrate the deep bond between our countries. Our people are united by history and the strategic partnership we continue to forge, strengthened by trust and guided by shared values vital to ensuring stability and prosperity in our region. He concluded by making a toast to the friendship between Cyprus and Israel.
Representing the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. David Amsalem, Minister of Regional Cooperation started his speech stating that this is not only an official event but an opportunity to remind ourselves how close Israel and Cyprus are. The bridges between us in the areas of security, economy, tourism and culture are long and deep. Our relationship is based upon mutual trust and by a sense of true partnership. In the field of energy, "Great Sea Interconnector" in which Cyprus, Greece and Israel are partners is an excellent example of our ability to think big. In the field of Tourism, over 400 000 Israelis visit Cyprus annually, drawn by its beautiful beaches and warm hospitality. Mutual visits by ministers, businesspeople and investors adds another dimension of partnership. In the field of emergency aid, last summer proved once again the closeness between us, where Israel sent firefighting planes to help fight the fire on the Troodos mountains. The trilateral cooperation between Israel, Greece and Cyprus and within the framework of the "3 + 1 mechanism" including the U.S.A., is testament to our shared regional strength. Green energy, sustainability technology and artificial intelligence are areas where we can lead together. In a few weeks Israel will commemorate the second anniversary of the 7th of October. Cyprus stood by us in its unequivocal condemnation of Hamas and in calling for the unconditional release of the hostages. Cyprus happens to be one of Israel's closest partners and together we can ensure a future of peace, stability and prosperity. He concluded his address by stating that Israel looks forward to
continuing and deepening the warm friendship and partnership that is concomitant between the two countries.
Among the many dignitaries present were Ambassadors, diplomats, heads of NGOs, Military Attaches, People conducting business in or with Cyprus, Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, H.E. Mr. Eden Bar Tal, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms.Louisa Varaclas Director for Israel at Cyprus Tourism Organisation, Mr. Nathan Allalouf, Honorary Consul of Costa Rica in Israel and President of Allalouf Shipping, Mr. Uri Sirkis, CEO of Israir Airlines, Mr. Eyal Kashdan, CEO of Flying Carpet, Mr. Boaz Baxman, Manager of Ophir Tours, Ms. Ayala Meitav, Senior Project Manager of International Relations for Tel Aviv's Municipality, Maj Gen (Ret) Amos Gilead, Executive Director of the Institute for Policy and Strategy and Chairman of the annual Herzliya Conference Series at Reichman University, Ms. Anat Kiki of Kiki Fashion and last but not least Mr. Amit Cotler, a presenter and journalist of Israel state television channel.
www.diplomacy.co.il extends its congratulations to the Ambassador of Cyprus to Israel on the auspicious occasion of his country's 65th anniversary of independence and success in future bilateral relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the State of Israel
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