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- Written by Silvia Golan
Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and Celebrates in Israel 62 Years of Independence: Discover Africa’s Hidden Gem of Nature, Wildlife and Culture
From the spectacular Victoria Falls to extraordinary walking safaris, ancient traditions and vibrant cultural festivals, Zambia offers travelers an unforgettable African experience
A festive reception marking the Independence Day of the Republic of Zambia was held yesterday Thursday, 12 November 2026 at the residence of the Ambassador of Zambia to Israel, H.E. Mahuba Wesley Hazemba and wife, bringing together guests and representatives from the diplomatic, business and tourism communities.
The event provided an opportunity to showcase Zambia as an outstanding tourism destination in the heart of Africa, offering a unique combination of spectacular landscapes, abundant wildlife, magnificent rivers and lakes, adventure activities and rich cultural heritage. As Zambia celebrates 62 years of independence, the country invites travelers to discover a destination where nature, adventure and authentic cultural experiences come together.
Zambia is a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Approximately 30% of the country's land area is dedicated to wildlife conservation. Its 20 national parks offer opportunities to encounter Africa's iconic Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes. Zambia is also internationally recognized as one of the birthplaces of modern walking safaris. In parks such as South Luangwa, visitors can explore the wilderness on foot, accompanied by experienced guides, experiencing African wildlife from a unique perspective. Another extraordinary natural spectacle takes place in Kasanka National Park, where an estimated 8–10 million fruit bats gather every year between October and December, creating the world's largest mammal migration.
No visit to Zambia is complete without experiencing the magnificent Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya – "The Smoke That Thunders". Among the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the falls offer exciting experiences including the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, lion, tiger and cheetah walks and interactions, white-water rafting, canoe safaris, scenic flights and the famous Devil’s Pool, accessible during suitable seasonal conditions. Zambia also shares Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-deepest lake and one of its oldest freshwater lakes, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and beautiful scenery.
Zambia is home to 73 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, customs and cultural identity. More than 30 traditional ceremonies take place across the country every year, featuring music, dance, colorful costumes and ancient rituals.
Among the most remarkable annual events include the Kuomboka Ceremony, celebrated by the Lozi people at the end of the rainy season (typically in March or April), with the return journey (Kufuluhela) taking place around August, the Nc'wala Ceremony, celebrated by the Ngoni people on the last Saturday of February, and the Likumbi Lya Mize Ceremony, celebrated by the Luvale-speaking people in August. During the spectacular Kuomboka Ceremony, the Litunga, the traditional king, travels in an impressive royal barge called the Nalikwanda, accompanied by hundreds of paddlers, traditional drums and a colorful procession, from the flooded plains of the Zambezi River to higher ground.
Zambian cuisine is an important part of the country's cultural identity. Its national staple dish, Nshima, is a thick maize-based porridge traditionally served with vegetables, fish, beans or meat. Usually eaten by hand, it represents an essential part of everyday life and Zambian hospitality.
Zambia is also renowned for its rich natural resources, particularly copper, which plays a central role in its economy and makes it one of Africa's leading copper producers. From spectacular waterfalls and wildlife-rich national parks to fascinating traditions, welcoming communities and extraordinary natural diversity, Zambia offers visitors a memorable combination of adventure, discovery and authentic African hospitality.
The relationship between Israel and Zambia is rooted in decades of friendship and mutual respect. The opening of Israel's resident embassy in Lusaka in 2025, alongside the historic presidential visits, marks a new chapter in bilateral relations. Both countries have significant opportunities to deepen cooperation in agriculture, water management, innovation, technology, tourism and economic development.
The Ambassador of Zambia to Israel, Mr. Mahuba Wesley Hazamba, said: "The relations between Zambia and Israel are built on friendship, mutual respect and a shared desire to expand cooperation between our two countries. We attach great importance to strengthening our ties in tourism, culture and trade. I warmly invite Israeli companies, businesses, tourists and the public to visit Zambia, discover its extraordinary natural beauty, experience its rich cultural heritage and enjoy the warm hospitality of its people". The Ambassador also said: "I call for increased export of Israeli investment into Zambia, to exploit immense opportunities that exist in the development of science and technology, innovation, mining, cyber security, green economy and education, agriculture technology, water management, energy, industry and manufacturing. Zambia looks forward to welcoming you!".
Mr. Uri Dali, in charge of commercial relations at the Embassy of Zambia in Israel, highlighted the importance of the longstanding relations between Zambia and Israel, emphasizing the significant potential for expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, tourism and other areas of mutual interest.
Photo credit Lior Sattarov ( Debate for Peace Forum )
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- Written by Silvia Golan
*Historic delegation of 500 African American and African Christian leaders to visit Israel: “Continuing the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”*
Today (Wednesday, November 4), a press conference was held ahead of the arrival in Israel of a historic delegation organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the name *Unfinished Business Pilgrimage*, comprising approximately 500 African American and African pastors and Christian leaders. Led by the Black Christian Leadership Council on Israel Relations, the delegation seeks to fulfill a historic vision: *the visit to Israel by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which was planned for 1967 but never took place following his assassination*. The delegation will be joined by *75 Christian leaders from ten African countries*, *a group of American rabbis arriving to mark the Jewish-Christian partnership*, and *religious influencers with millions of followers*.
At the press conference, the delegation's leaders, Pastors Dumisani Washington and Dr. Michael A. Stevens, spoke about the importance they attach to visiting Israel at this particular time. They explained that the delegation seeks to express its support for Israel, gain firsthand familiarity with the reality on the ground, and share the stories of the October 7 events, the war, and life in Israel with their communities in the United States and Africa.
Pastor Washington emphasized that the current delegation is the first step in a long-term process, noting that *the goal is to bring approximately 5,000 pastors next year*, with the aim of deepening and expanding ties between Israel and the African American Christian community.
During the press conference, three certificates of recognition were presented to Israelis whose personal stories reflect the events of the war and their consequences: *Hila Abir, whose brother, Lotan, was murdered at the Nova music festival*; *Elkana Bohbot, who survived 738 days in Hamas captivity;* and *Daniel Lischinsky, the father of Yaron Lischinsky, who was murdered in the terrorist attack in Washington alongside his partner, Sarah Milgrim*, Both worked at the Israeli Embassy in Washington. Alongside the certificates of recognition, the three received commemorative pomegranates containing videos documenting the stories of Lotan, Yaron, and Elkana.
*On Monday, a special event will be held in honor of the delegation, during which Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar will deliver remarks*. Delegation members will also take part in *special events as part of the Jerusalem celebrations of the Sigd holiday*. In addition, a *group photograph of the delegation members is planned to take place on Martin Luther King Street in Jerusalem*, as a tribute to his vision and legacy.
Ambassador Tammy Ben-Haim welcomed the delegation members on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and emphasized the longstanding relationship with members of the Council, as well as the importance Israel attaches to fulfilling the dream of bringing such a large delegation of African American religious leaders to Israel, in a first-of-its-kind visit.
Photo credit Silvia G Golan
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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On Tuesday evening, the 20th of October 2026, at the Tel Aviv Hilton, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. and Mrs. Kornelios Korneliou hosted a large and extravagant reception in honour of 66 years of Cypriot independence.
On the 16th of August 1960 the Republic of Cyprus was born, ending 82 years of British administration.
In the banquet hall, there was a photographic exhibition under the auspices of the Cypriot Press and Information Office, entitled, "52 Years Is Far To Long" about numerous events following the tragic Turkish invasion in 1975 which included the women's anti - occupation movement, "Women Walk Home" which held its first march before the completion of the first year of Turkey's invasion, 1000's of Cypriot women carried out the "March Towards Ammochostos". Another powerful photograph was that of relatives of missing persons holding photos of their loved ones in protests in Lefkosia.
The two Master of Ceremonies were Mr. Stavros Nikolaou, the Embassy of Cyprus's Deputy Head of Mission and Mrs. Ilana Arar, the Ambassador's P. A. stating that the evening's celebration is a festival of democracy. Mrs. Arar warmly welcomed all and sundry and stated that within a week after the forthcoming election, Israel will also celebrate democracy. Her only request was to enjoy the evening.
The national anthem of Cyprus followed by that of Israel was played.
Behind the stage, there were three giant screens, one with the globe with Cyprus almost at the centre, another screen displayed an artistic map of Cyprus and the third displaying the names of the evening's sponsors.
A heartfelt recorded message by Israel's President, the H.E. Isaac Herzog was shown. He congratulated Cyprus on their 66th anniversary of independence saying that Israel and Cyprus enjoy a steadfast relationship afterwards quoting his Father's journey and his own recent official visit on the 10th of September 2026. Among the factors concerning national importance and strategic partnership for both countries, was national security and national emergency response. Israelis love Cyprus. I believe that within the foreseeable future the three countries of the Eastern Mediterranean namely Israel, Cyprus and Lebanon will sit together. Best wishes and good luck to Ambassador Shuli Davidowitz, Israel's Ambassador to Cyprus who assumed her duties five days ago, on the 13th of October.
H.E. Mr. Kornelios Korneliou, the Ambassador of Cyprus address began by him welcoming the Honourable Minister for Diaspora and Combating Antisemitism, Mr. Amichai Chikli, Your Beatitude, Patriarch Theofilos the Third, Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, dignitaries and all guests. He mentioned a special welcome to many Cypriot friends who arrived for the 8th Cyprus Israel Business and Investment Summit which was held earlier during the day at the Hilton. Today we celebrate the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960. Today we remember the struggles of the Cypriot people on the road to freedom and their efforts in safeguarding and strengthening the Republic of Cyprus. We mark this anniversary while one third of our country remains under Turkish occupation as a result of the illegal invasion in 1974 and the continuing occupation. Cyprus is too small to remain divided however sufficiently large for Greek-Cypriots as well as Turkish-Cypriots to live in peace. Most recently a rare coin of Cypriot origin was discovered off the coast of Ashdod. This finds offers intangible evidence of the maritime and commercial connections between our lands some 2 500 years ago. Between 1946 - 1949 more than 53 000 Jewish refugees seeking a new beginning in the Holy Land passed through Cyprus serving as a transit point on their journey. During that period 2 253 children were born in Cyprus to Holocaust survivors. Some of those children honour us with their presence this evening. Cyprus remains steadfast in combating Anti- Semitism. This year Cyprus became a member of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. President Herzog's 3rd historic visit to Cyprus in September this year was a strong reaffirmation of our ever growing relations which manifests itself in emergency response, energy, healthcare, defence, trade, investments, technology, innovation and tourism. Last week Hadassa's opened a Medical Centre in Limassol. The frequency of flights - 225 in one week at the peak of summer including a new Haifa route is another testament to the close ties between our people. We welcome the growing Israeli community in Cyprus, enriching and strengthening the bonds between our peoples. Our bi-lateral relationship is reinforced by trilateral cooperation between Cyprus, Greece and Israel. In December 2025, the 10th summit of the leaders of the three countries took place in Jerusalem. This trilateral mechanism with initiatives in energy, connectivity, civil protection, health, and cybersecurity is important for regional stability and security. Initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) offers new strategic prospects for connectivity, trade and shared prosperity.
The horrific attacks of the 7th of October left a profound and lasting trauma on Israeli society. Terrorism and bararity can never be excused. From the outset, Cyprus extended its solidarity to Israel condemning Hamas's atrocities, and supported the unconditional release of all hostages as well as emphasizing Israel's right to self defence in accordance with international law. Simultaneously, Cyprus contributed to humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The implementation of a marine corridor for the transfer of humanitarian aid proved what our countries could accomplish. Cyprus also serves as a hub for safe repatriation and evacuation helping Israelis return home and enabling thousands of third country nationals to return home. We are reminded that the true strength of a country lies not only in its history, institutions and its achievements but in its people.
We are truly grateful to our Cypriot and Israeli event sponsors namely Eurobank, Super - pharm, Energean, Israir, Air Haifa, Arkia, Dor Group and NewMed Energy. I would like to warmly thank our Honorary Consul, Mr. Leon Koffer for his generosity as this event would not have been able to take place without his support. Last but not least, I would like to thank the outstanding team at the Embassy for their contribution in actualizing this event. This is the Cyprus we celebrate tonight: proud of its past, confident in its identity, and hopeful for the future.In conclusion, since my arrival in Israel in July 2023, it has not always been easy and at times challenging but at the same time rewarding. During my time here I have witnessed the resilience of Israeli society, the importance of friendship and solidarity and the enduring value of the relationship between our countries. It is indeed a great honour for me to serve as the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the State of Israel and to contribute to strengthening our friendship.
Representing the State of Israel was Israel's Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitsm, Mr. Amichai Chikli who started his speech by saying that since the 7th of October 2026 Israel has been fighting to defend itself against the axis of evil - Hamas, Hezbollah and the Iranian regime. Cyprus understands the importance of national independence and the heavy price paid when sovereignty is challenged by totalitarian imperialism. Israel and Cyprus are neighbours determined by geography and allies by choice. Our partnership includes energy, technology, tourism, healthcare, emergency response and defence. I have had the privilege of visiting Cyprus both officially and personally with my wife and three children. During official visits I met with the local Jewish community, visited internment camps where thousands of Jewish immigrants were detained by the British authorities while seeking to reach the Land of Israel. Today strategic clarity requires us to speak plainly about a shared threat facing us and our region. Turkey under President Erdogan, who combines the radical ideology of the Muslim Brotherhood with his concomitant vision of restoring the Ottoman Empire. Cyprus continues to face the consequences of Turkey's military presence and the division of its territory. Our countries face different realities but the underlying challenge is connected, an Ankara that seeks greater regional dominance at the expense of its neighbours security and sovereignty. We seek stability and not confrontation. Peace cannot be built on appeasement and sovereignty cannot be defended by wishful thinking. I recommend Erdogen learns the historic lessons never to underestimate the power of free nations as we intend to build a future together with a region that is defined by cooperation, prosperity and peace. May our strategic partnership reach new heights continuing to work together for security, prosperity and peace in the Eastern Mediterranean. Happy Independence Day to the Republic of Cyprus!
Ambassadors, Diplomats, Military Attaches, CEOs of companies, high ranking state officials, heads of NGOs including the Foreign Ministry's Chief of State Protocol, Ambassador Gil Haskel, His Excellency the Archbishop of Constantina Aristarchos from the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, Ms. Louisa Varaclas, Director of the Cyprus Tourism Organization in Tel Aviv, Mr. Konstantinos and Mrs. Maria Zinovios, Greece's Consul in Haifa, Major General (Ret) Amos Gilead, Executive Director of the Institute for Policy and Strategy and Chairman of Reichman University's annual Herzliya Conference Series, Nathan Allalouf, Costa Rica's Honorary Consul and President and Chairman of the Allalouf Group,;Daniel Allalouf, The Allalouf Group's Business Development Manager ; Mr. Essam Rashed, President of the Rotary Club of Nazareth ; Mr. Gabi Buganim, CEO of Dorsel Real Estate Projects ; Steven Aiello, Director of Debate for Peace and the United Nations Model in Israel, Ms. Sabine Segal from the Israel Export Institute, Gabriel Hayon, Chairman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Carlo Gross, Italy's Honorary Consul in Haifa, Professor Louis Shenkman, formerly the University of Tel Aviv's Dean of Medicine and a specialist in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ms. Yona Bartal, representative of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, Dr. Khaled and Mrs. Reem Khalifa, Chairman of the Arab Council for Foreign Relations, Mr. Daniel Voiczek, General Manager of the Friends of Zion Museum in Jerusalem, Ms. Ayala Meitav, Tel-Aviv - Yafo Municipality's Senior Project Manager for International Relations, Ms. Miriam Berger - Director General of the Latin - American Chamber of Commerce; Ms. Daphna Adam from Maman Aviation, Maor Ifrah, an advisor in Foreign Ministry's Director General's Office, Boaz Baxman, Manager of Ofir Tours; Eyal Kashdan, CEO of Flying Carpet and the famous Israeli Chef Shaul Ben Aderet .
www.diplomacy.co.il/ extends its congratulations to the Ambassador of Cyprus, H.E. Mr. and Mrs. Kornelios Korneliou on their county's 66th anniversary of independence and its appreciation to the Embassy staff for organizing an inimitable and unforgettable evening of celebration.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Austria to Israel, H.E. Mr. Arad Benkö
On October 26, 2026, President Isaac Herzog received the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassadors to Israel of the Netherlands, Stella Ronner-Grubačić; France, Christophe Parisot; Austria, Arad Benkö; Rwanda, Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Bayingana; and Ghana, Evelyn Korantemaa Ofosu-Amable, in formal ceremonies at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Netherlands to Israel, H.E. Mrs.Stella Ronner-Grubačić
Upon receiving the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassador of the Netherlands Mrs. Stella Ronner-Grubačić, President Herzog stated: “These are trying times in the relations between Israel and the Netherlands. We are worried about what we see and hear from public opinion and from the government in the Netherlands. There is an onslaught on Israel without understanding our role in defending Europe and the fact that Israel is a vibrant democracy.”
President Herzog added: “I had the pleasure of meeting with His Majesty King Willem-Alexander a few years ago, and he has expressed throughout a clear moral voice against antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments.” Ambassador Ronner-Grubačić conveyed the King’s personal greetings to President Herzog during their meeting after the ceremony.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of France to Israel, H.E. Mr Christophe Parisot
In his meeting with France’s new Ambassador to Israel, Mr. Christophe Parisot, President Herzog highlighted the significant historical ties between Israel and France. The President affirmed the importance of overcoming the challenges in these relations, reinvigorating bilateral ties across a range of fields, and building a new path forward.
Upon welcoming Ambassador Arad Benkö of Austria, President Herzog expressed his appreciation for the warm friendship between Israel and Austria and their close cooperation in innovation, science, technology, trade, tourism, and security. The President also commended Austria’s ongoing commitment to the fight against antisemitism and Holocaust remembrance.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Rwanda to Israel, H.E. Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Bayingana
Greeting Rwanda’s new Ambassador, Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Bayingana, the President highlighted the warm friendship and growing cooperation between Israel and Rwanda in many fields, including innovation, agriculture, development, and education.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Ghana to Israel, H.E. Ms. Evelyn Korantemaa Ofosu-Amable
Upon receiving the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassador of Ghana to Israel, Mrs. Evelyn Korantemaa Ofosu-Amable, President Herzog highlighted the potential to deepen ties between Israel and Ghana, including in the fields of agriculture, technology, healthcare, and water management, as well as the importance of deepening Israel’s relations with countries across Africa.
Upon the ambassadors' arrival, the anthems of their respective countries were played by the IDF Orchestra, after which the ambassadors inspected the honor guard in the ceremony hall. Following the presentation of their letters of credence, a private meeting was held with each ambassador, and finally, the ambassadors signed the President’s Residence guestbook.
Photo credits: Hilel Ben-Or
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- Written by Silvia Golan
In a major diplomatic milestone, the Republic of Colombia officially inaugurated its embassy in Jerusalem on Wednesday, October 14, becoming the tenth country to establish an embassy in Israel’s capital. The move simultaneously highlighted strengthening diplomatic ties between Colombia and Israel, and a global shift towards Jerusalem, with the number of foreign embassies in the city doubling in the last two years.
The inauguration ceremony at the Embassy was attended by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar. On Wednesday evening an official reception marking the occasion was hosted at Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion, along with senior diplomats and distinguished guests from both countries.
During the evening reception, Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar announced that Colombia has officially submitted a request to withdraw from "The Hague Group" of countries that have pursued legal measures against Israel, with the minister stating: “Today, Colombia officially requested to withdraw from 'The Hague Group'—a group created to isolate and attack Israel. We reject this approach.” Noting the emphasis of the new Colombian government on combatting antisemitism, Escobar stressed that “The government of President Abelardo de la Espriella, this Foreign Ministry, and this Foreign Minister will not remain silent...We will not allow it."
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar noted in his speech that the embassy move had been an important objective for President of Colombia Abelardo de la Espriella , with the president promising Sa’ar in November 2025 'If I am elected President of the Republic, I will immediately move the Embassy of Colombia to Jerusalem,' and delivering on his promise almost immediately.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also addressed the audience on this momentous occasion, placing the embassy opening in the context of the vibrant and growing friendship between Israel and Latin American countries, with four of the countries that have already opened embassies in Jerusalem coming from the region. Netanyahu noted many shared interests: “We want to seize the future together with security, with agriculture, with water, with AI, with everything, with everything. We want to make it grow, not only the crops, the people, the children. Give hope.” Netanyahu also said that Jerusalem was the ideal place to celebrate Israeli-Colombian friendship, as “the pulsating heart of the Jewish people for three millennia…our past, it's our future, it's our hope, it's our faith.”
Diplomacy.co.il and www.diariojudio.com extends its congratulations the nation of Colombia on opening its new embassy and success for the continued growth of bilateral relations between Israel and Colombia.
Photo credit : Rafi Ben Hakoon/ GPO
