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On the eve of Monday, 11 March, the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania, H.E. Mr. Audrius Bruzga and Mrs. Imsre Sabaliunas - Bruzgiene hosted a reception at the Anu Museum of the Jewish People, University of Tel Aviv in honour of the 35th anniversary of the Day of the Restoration of Independence marking the end of a 50 year occupation and annexation by the Soviet powers and the efforts of the nation to preserve the spirit of freedom.
 
The Master of Ceremonies, Evelina, represented the Embassy of Lithuania, warmly welcoming everyone present. The ceremony commenced with the playing of both national anthems .
 
The Ambassador's keynote address was introduced in impressive Hebrew. He stated that it is a good feeling to be back at the Anu Museum of the Jewish People. I feel at home here as a great deal of Jewish History comes from Lithuania. The Yivo Institute of Jewish Research was established in Berlin and subsequently moved to New York. The Institute is dedicated to fostering knowledge of the history and culture of East European Jewry and houses a world renowned library and research facilities. On Wednesday, 12 March at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art the Embassy of Lithuania will participate in a symposium, film screening and exhibition entitled "Vilnius,Then and Now" about the Great Synagogue of Vilna which was excavated for 6 years. This event is dedicated to the Yivo Jewish Research Institute's centennial anniversary. Peace, both in Europe and the Middle East has been threatened, Israel has not been the same since the 7th of October 2023 and the perpetrators must be brought to justice. Peace in Ukraine remains elusive and the Ukranians have been abandoned and left alone. The world is in a situation where people can no longer identify the villain as well the victim. My people fully support Ukraine. I also see encouraging signs of things normalizing in Israel. The Ambassador welcomed Mr. Simon Davidson, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset. In conclusion, the Ambassador mentioned that the Embassy will arrange a series of events honoring the 150th anniversary of Lithuania's most prominent artist who was also a composer , Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis who died young in 1911. He already then advocated for and envisaged a free and independent Lithuanian state. His art is depicted by themes of fantasy and virtual reality films of his colourful and tranquil work that have been created for the purpose of relaxation and therapy.
 
 
 
 
The Government of the State of Israel was represented by Rabbi Uri Maklev, Deputy Minister of Transport and Road Safety. He began his speech by stating that over the years the two countries have established a solid and open relationship of friendship based on shared values and cooperation as well as Lithuania's support for Israel in various international forums. Cooperation exists in innovation, cyber security, global climate change, education, culture, economics and health. Israel is struggling with the heart breaking tasks of burying our dead, rehabilitating the hostages after suffering more than 500 days of abuse and starvation and reconstructing decimated towns, villages and communities and working towards the release of the remaining hostages. I would like to express my support to the Lithuanian government with regards to the threat from Iran and for designating the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization. As antisemitism is on the rise we commend the Government of Lithuania for its approach and battle against this iniquitous ideology. He ended by asking the Ambassador to convey the warm wishes of the Government and people of Israel to the Government and people of Lithuania.
 
 
 
 
Mr. Simon Davidson, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset and Chairman of the Israel Lithuanian Friendship Group immigrated from Vilnius in 1972 spoke, mentioning that a week ago he visited Lithuania together with a Knesset parliamentary delegation in order to strengthen the relationship between the Knesset and the Seimas, Lithuania's parliament. He attended an official memorial ceremony at Ponar Forest where many of 94% of Lithuanian Jewry were slaughtered. We returned home with confidence and knowledge knowing that relations will intensify for the good. We have to do everything within our power to secure the release of the 59 remaining hostages held in Gaza's tunnels. 
 
There was a  raffle of three prizes, third and second prize was a food hamper and first prize was sponsored by Mr. Pini Kleiner of Overseas Travel which included flights and a stay for two people at Lithuania's premium health spa, Birstonas.
 
The entrance and stage was decorated by flowers in Lithuania's national colors i.e. red, green and yellow and the Ambassador's spouse as well as two representatives of the Embassy were dressed in colourful national costume. 
 
A lavish diary buffet was served consisting of a selection of cheese, quiches, salads and deserts as well as wine and nonalcoholic beverages.  
 
Guests of importance included many Ambassadors, diplomats, state officials, business people and Lithuanian expatriates. Present was Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Shai Schnitzer, Lithuania's Honorary Consul and President of S.Schnitzer Diamonds with offices in Ramat Gan, New York and Hong Kong, Dr. Laurance Weinbaum, Director General of the Israel Council on Foreign Relations and Chief Editor of the Israel Journal of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Mickey Kantor, Director of Beit Vilna - The  Association of Jews from Vilna and Vicinity in Israel, Brigadier - General (Res) Amir Avivi of IDSF (Israel Defence Security Force), Mr. Daniel Ivanov, Director of Ourcrowd which is Israel's largest venture capital fund, Mrs Collete Avital, Chairperson of the Centre Organization of Holocaust Survivors in Israel, Secretary General of the World Jewish Restitution Organization and Vice President of the Conference of Material Claims Against Germany, Dr. Rachel Fund, a retired Pediatrician born and educated in Vilnius who immigrated 52 years ago to Israel, Mr. Asher Salmon, Head of the Ministry of Health's  International Affairs Division and Mr. David Kaplan, born in Vilnius who immigrated to Israel and worked as an engineer at Israel Aircraft Industry.
 
 
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates H.E. Mr. Audrius Bruzga and Mrs. Imsre Sabaliunas Bruzgiene as well as all staff at the Embassy of Lithuania in Tel Aviv on a happy 35 anniversary of the Day of Restoration of Independence of Lithuania and for a memorable evening.                          . 
 
  

 Photos Silvia G. Golan

More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

  

On February 27, 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Israel hosted an official reception at the Dan Hotel in Tel Aviv to celebrate Bulgaria’s National Day, March 3rd, marking 147 years since the country’s liberation from Ottoman rule. The event was moderated by Mr. Moni Leon Bar, Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in Israel, who played a key role in supporting the Embassy in organizing the event.

Ambassador Gergova’s Speech: A Strong Message of Solidarity and Historical Reflection

H.E. Slavena Gergova, Bulgaria’s Ambassador to Israel, delivered a powerful speech honoring Bulgaria’s struggle for freedom and drawing historical parallels between Bulgaria’s past and Israel’s present challenges. She expressed deep condolences for the victims of the October 7th terrorist attacks and called for the immediate and full implementation of all phases of the hostage deal, emphasizing the importance of securing the return of all abducted individuals.

Ambassador Gergova also reaffirmed Bulgaria’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that negotiations for the end of the Russian war in Ukraine must include the country itself and the European Union.

Marking the 35th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Israel, she highlighted the special bond between the two nations. She recalled Bulgaria’s heroic rescue of its more than 48,000 Jews during World War II, stressing the importance of preserving Holocaust memory and combating modern antisemitism. Furthermore, she underlined Bulgaria’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Israel across multiple sectors, including tourism, trade, labor, investments, IT, and innovation.

Minister Haim Katz: Strengthening Bilateral Ties Amid Global Challenges

Speaking on behalf of the Israeli government, Minister of Tourism Haim Katz expressed gratitude for Bulgaria’s consistent support, especially in the wake of recent tragic events. He acknowledged the deep historical connection between the two nations, highlighting Bulgaria’s actions to protect its Jewish population during World War II.

Minister Katz addressed the current challenges facing Israel, including ongoing terrorist attacks and rising global antisemitism. He thanked Bulgaria for its commitment to the security of the Jewish community and Israeli tourists visiting Bulgaria. He also praised Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen Agreement and its expected entry into the OECD, expressing hope that these developments would further strengthen its economy.

Regarding tourism, Minister Katz noted that Bulgaria remains a popular destination for Israeli travelers, offering diverse attractions year-round. He encouraged greater tourism exchange, hoping to see more Bulgarian visitors in Israel.

President Isaac Herzog: Bulgaria chose to stand courageously against the dangerous suspension of morality 

The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, congratulated Bulgarian officials and guests at the reception with a heartfelt video message highlighting the special bond between the two countries. He acknowledged Bulgaria’s long standing support for Israel and the Jewish people throughout history, particularly following the events of October 7th. He emphasized Israel's desire to facilitate high-level visits in 2025, when the two countries will celebrate the 35th anniversary of their diplomatic restoration.

 

 

Distinguished guests expressed their gratitude to Bulgaria for its clear stance in support of Israel and the fight against terrorism and highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two nations, rooted in historical moments such as Bulgaria’s rescue of its Jewish population during World War II.  Among the official guests were representatives of the Israeli Presidency office, the Israeli government and institutions, representatives of the diplomatic corps – many ambassadors, military attaches, diplomats, representatives of the Israeli civil society and Israeli business, as well as the leaders of the Bulgarian Jewish organizations and prominent members of the Bulgarian Jewish community in Israel.

The evening featured a special musical performance by Mr. Arik Davidov, a Bulgarian Jew, world-renowned trumpet virtuoso, and descendant of three generations of trumpet players. His rendition of the Bulgarian and Israeli national anthems symbolized the strong and enduring friendship between the two nations.

  

  

The participant was given a real culinary journey, prepared by the chiefs of the Dan Hotel, which included delicacies of Bulgarian and international cuisine, which became a unique gastronomic delight. 

The reception underscored the deep and enduring partnership between Bulgaria and Israel, built on shared democratic values, historical solidarity, and a steadfast commitment to enhanced cooperation. In the current challenging global context, the diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries continue to strengthen, fostering future collaboration and deeper connections. 

This year’s commemoration of March 3rd was not only a tribute to Bulgaria’s past but also a powerful message of solidarity and empathy for the victims of terrorism. It served as a reminder that freedom is the highest value—one that nations must defend, regardless of time or place.

 Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates H.E. Ms. Slavena Gergova and the Embassy staff on the 147 Bulgaria’s Liberation Day

 

Written by Mrs.  Antoanet (Tony) Levy  – External Relations & Innovation, HIT Holon Institute of Technology, PO

 Photos Silvia G. Golan

More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan

 

 

 

  Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of El Salvador, H.E. Mr. Héctor Enrique Celarié Landaverde

 

 Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Costa Rica H.E. Mr. Antonio Lopez Escarre

 

President Herzog receiving the credentials of Ambassador of Ecuador, H.E. Ms María Cristina Cevallos Calero

 

President Herzog receiving the credentials of Ambassador of Greece, H.E. Ms .Maria Solomou

 

President Isaac Herzog received  on Wednesday , 5 February 2025,  the diplomatic credentials of new ambassadors to Israel: Ambassador of El Salvador, Héctor Enrique Celarié Landaverde, Ambassador of Ecuador, María Cristina Cevallos Calero, Ambassador of Costa Rica, Antonio Ignacio López Escarré, and Ambassador of Greece, Maria Solomou.

In his meetings, the President stressed the imperative of returning the hostages, and noted the importance of the meeting last night between Prime Minister Netanyahu, and US President Trump.

He said: ““I want to say a few words regarding the very important and productive meeting between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu. It was a very important meeting. It is a beautiful expression of the unbreakable bond between the United States and Israel and Israel and the United States, and it's a beautiful expression of the deep commitment and affection of President Trump to the State of Israel and its well being and security.

“I think that the fact that both leaders discussed the hostage deal and the need to complete the deal, especially the commitment of President Trump to bringing all our hostages back home is a very important statement. We must do whatever we can to bring our hostages back home until the last one returns home. It is the most important topic in our national psyche, and I hope and pray we will see more and more hostages returning home as soon as possible.

“Their discussion was also very important as it relates to the further inclusion of Israel in the region. And I hope to be able to see many more Arab countries join the circle of peace with Israel in our region, making a historic change. This has to be coupled with the fact that we must block Iran and its terrible plans and its heinous activities through its proxies all throughout the region, against Israel and against Jews all over the world.

“I truly hope that the positive outcome of this very important meeting will be felt in our region and in Israel and in the world at large in the very near future.”

  

Photo credit: Ma'ayan Toaf (GPO)

 

  

On Wednesday, 19 February 2025, the Head of Mission of the Embassy of Kosovo to the State of Israel, Ms. Ines Demiri hosted a reception in honor of her country's 17th anniversary of independence at the Hilton, Tel Aviv.
 
Mr. Denis Karlinskiy, the Head of Mission's P.A. was Master of Ceremonies, warmly welcomed all present and said that the significance in Jewish Gematria of Kosovo's 17 years of independence is Good. Kosovo reaffirms its commitment towards an enduring partnership with Israel.
 
The playing of the two national anthems of Kosovo and Israel was lead by Maestro Kastriot Xhon Marku,a renowned Kosovon violinist who together with his wife, Mrs. Pagarusha Roleil Marku, a soprano and interpreter of traditional Albanian folk songs arrived especially from London for the event.    
 
Head of Mission, Ms. Ines Demiri extended her welcome and stated that Kosovo is a testament of resilience of the people who have shaped it for what it is today.  We continue to build a strong democracy striving towards membership of the United Nations, Nato and the European Union. Today Kosovo has become a nation that innovates and contributes towards the world. It has earned gold medals in international sport competitions and presently has a growth rate of 4%. Kosovo is a member of many international organizations and is acknowledged by 117 countries. Four years ago Israel recognized Kosovo's independence and I have been working tirelessly towards reaching and intensifying relations between our two countries. The bond between Kosovo and Israel is deeply symbolic and we stand in full solidarity with Israel in the knowledge that peace will be achieved and the remaining hostages will safely be reunited with their families. She welcomed the two Kosovon musicians from London and expressed her thanks and gratitude to Kosovo's Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Roy Roznek. 
 
Representing the government of the State of Israel was H.E. Mr. Ofir Sofer, Minister of Aliya and Integration. He expressed his congratulations on Kosovo's 17 years of independence and 4 years of bilateral relations with Israel, which is the only European country with an Embassy in Jerusalem. Last year we did not celebrate Kosovo's independence due to the war. He also added his appreciation to Kosovo's  Prime Minister and other Cabinet Ministers who showed solidarity with Israel after the 7th of October attack. Recently a Visa Waiver agreement between Israel and Kosovo was actualized which will be able to facilitate tourism to and from both countries. A delegation of Kosovan businessmen and investors was hosted by Kosovo's Honorary Consul and in January 2025 the Embassy of Kosovo organized a commemorative ceremony for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. 
 
Mr. Erez Malul, a member of Knesset and Head of the parliamentary Israel Kosovo Friendship Committee spoke enthusiastically about hosting a Kosovan friendship group in the Knesset led by Mr. Abdullah Hoti. During the meetings there was a strong sense of solidarity and closeness and this year in the Knesset a law was promulgated allowing Kosovan citizens to enter Israel without a visa.
 
The Head of Mission, the Minister and Member of Knesset cut a celebratory cake which was coated in turquoise.     
 
 
 
 
A concert primarily of Albanian folk songs was played by Maestro Marku who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Pagarusha Marku. Their music was lively and buoyant and greatly enjoyed by the audience.      
 
A certificate from Keren Kayemet Israel was presented to the Head of Mission by Prof. Yehuda Haimowitz as the Embassy planted 17 trees coinciding with 17 years of independence as well as another tree in the name of Ms. Ines Demiri which is a total of 18 trees, in Gematria the number 18 symbolizes Chai or Life. 
 
A photographic exhibition by Ella Waldman with the themes of Kosovo and Jerusalem was also on display. A lavish buffet of raw fish - sashimi and steamed buns with meat , salads, fresh fruit  and deserts was served in an adjoining room. 
 
Guests who were present included distinguished ambassadors, state officials, Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, Ambassador Peleg Lewi, Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Israeli Minister of Tourism, Ambassador Dan Oryan, the Foreign Ministry's Director of Civic Diplomacy, Mr. Yuval Fuchs, the Foreign Ministry's Deputy Director General and Head of Eurasia and the Western Balkans Division, Mr. Roy Reznik, Honorary Consul of Kosovo in Israel, Mr. Eric Rubin, Maccabi World Union's Global Ambassador, Mrs. Mika Amram, Director of Global Patient Services at Sheba Tel Hashomer hospital, Mrs. Tamara Hatav, Sheba Tel Hashomer hospital's Director of Global Relations and Partnerships, Mr. Chen Filipowicz who represented the Katowice Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Ilan Pomeranc whose family own a hotel chain in the U.S. called Sixty Collective with operations in New York, Miami and Los Angeles, Prof. Yehuda Haimowitz who is an international consultant and contractor and teaches Management at Haifa University and Ms. Katie Schiff, Corporate Account Manager at the Hilton in Tel Aviv.
 
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates Kosovo's Head of Mission, Ms. Ines Demiri on Kosovo's 17 years of independence and thanks her and the Embassy staff for a memorable evening.   
 
  

Photos Silvia G. Golan

More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan

 

 

 
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On Tuesday evening, 4 February 2025 at the Carlton in Tel Aviv, the Honorary Consuls of El Salvador in Israel, Mr. Yossi Abadi and Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld hosted a cocktail reception welcoming El Salvador's newly appointed Ambassador to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Hector Enrique Celarie Landaverde.

The evening's Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Raphael Escoboza welcomed everyone present and began by stating that it is an honour to gather here tonight in this beautiful venue to welcome His Excellency, the new El Salvadoran Ambassador to Israel, H.E. Mr. Celarie Landaverde. This evening celebrated friendship, diplomacy and the strong ties between our nations. Under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador has undergone a remarkable transformation, strengthening its economy, enhancing security and embracing innovation. His forward thinking governance has positioned the country as a rising global power establishing partnerships with key actors in the international agenda.

Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld, Honorary Consul of El Salvador in Israel was the first speaker of the evening. His address was brief, saying that El Salvador has become safe, innovative, has many business opportunities and concluded by stating that he strongly hopes that Israel will soon reopen an Embassy in El Salvador.

He was followed by El Salvador's second Honorary Consul in Israel, Mr. Yossi Abadi who "paralyzed" the guests with his eloquence and finesse by saying that it is truly wonderful to see all of you here this evening and expressing the fact that the event is symbolic of the deep friendship between two nations - small in size but immense in heart. He warmly welcomed H.E. Mr. Celarie Landaverde "home" who will elevate El Salvador and Israel's diplomatic relationship to new heights. The strength of a nation is no longer defined by the size of its army but a country's greatness is defined by its ideas, values and technological advancements in which Israel and El Salvador have much in common. El Salvador experienced one of its most historic transformations in years from being the most violent country by having the murder capital of the world to becoming the safest country in the Western Hemisphere. El Salvador captured global attention a few years ago by electing a young president in jeans and a baseball cap. It then shocked the world by becoming the first nation to adopt Bitcoin. Today it has become an example of how to build functional institutions, hospitals, and libraries that are a source of national pride. Within two years President Bukele arrested 80 000 terrorists and criminals transforming El Salvador. It took him twelve months to build the largest and most advanced prison in Latin America. He recently offered President Trump the opportunity to outsource part of the U.S. prison system. In the last elections he won with more than 85% of the vote and his party won 54 out of 60 seats in the National Congress without silencing opposition and imprisoning a single journalist. On the El Salvadorian flag the emblem includes three words i.e. God, Union and Liberty being the key to Israel's success as they are to El Salvador's transformation. The country has also recently become a global leader in surf tourism and in 2025 a predicted 4.3 million visitors are due to arrive. It also has become a tax haven and foreign investment has exponentially increased. In the past year I have donated almost 1000 food and supply packages to communities affected by natural disasters as well as dozens of tablets to the National Library and provided scholarships to university students. He concluded by thanking the Ambassador for "keeping the Embassy strong in Israel" and welcoming him back to the Holy Land.

A short movie about El Salvador was shown "wetting the appetites" of everyone present as it exposed the beauty of El Salvador inspiring all to visit.

H.E. Mr. Hector Enrique Celarie Landaverde who served previously as Ambassdor in Israel as well as in Trinidad and Tobago, New York and in The Netherlands started his remards by extending warm greetings on behalf of President Bukele, Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill T. and the Salvadorian people inclding his wife Rosaline. Over the decades our two nations have worked together on many fronts inclusing technology, agriculture, education and cultural exchange which have strengthened not only diplomatic ties but also the development of our respective societies. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the two Honorary Consuls of El Salvador in Israel for organzining this welcoming event in my honour. El Salvador has embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation under the leadership of Presidntb Bukele especially in the areas of security, law and order, economic growth and modernization. The implementation of robust security policies have led to a dramatic decrease in crime rates, restoring peace to communities. After five years we are a completely different country of short distances, perfect waves for surfing, memorable sunsets on the beach or in the mountains with a vast cultural heriatge, the warmth of our people and our gastronomy. By embracing cutting - edge technologies such as blockchain, El Salvador is positioning itself as a global pioneer in finacial inclusion and economic diversification. We look forward to Israel as a key partner in accelarating our progress and aspire to deepen our collaboration in technology transfer, water management and sustainable agriculture. We envision a future where our partnership not only benefits both nations but also serves as a model of international cooperation for sustainable growth. in conclusion he thanked all for their presence and to the Honorary Consuls for organizing this special event.

Mr. Yoram Ray Naor, Consul General of Belize, a senior member of the Ambassdors Club and the Latin American - Israel Chamber of Commerce together with Mr. Ami H. Orkaby, Honorary Consul of Korea and Dean of the Consular Corps presented the Ambassador and his wife with an impressive bouqet of flowers and mentioned a few words of praise.

The event was graced by the presence of Ms. Maya Karmely Sommer, Director of the Mexico and Central America department Israel MFA, Ms.Ruth Amit - Fogel, Honorary Consul of Paraguay, Mr. Stanley Morais, El Al's Dircetor of International Affairs, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israel - Latin American Chamber of Commerce Mr. Gabriel Hayon, Chaiman of the Diplomatic Institute, Mr. Orel Levy, a surfboard artist who includes Jewish themes in his art and works both in Israel and in California, Mr. Yaron Bob, an artist who lives on the border with Gaza, transforming rockets of terror into expressions of peace, beauty and hope for the future and Dr. Beatriz Katz, Director of Gordon Academic College Iberian American Department.

 Diplomacy.co.il expresses its thanks and gratitude to the the Ambassador of El Salvador, H.E. Mr. Hector and Mrs.Rosaline Celarie Landaverde, the two El Salvadorian Honorary Consuls, Dr. Menashe Rosenfeld and Mr. Yossi Abadi for an extraordinary evening of Salvadoran hospitality.

 

 Photos Silvia G. Golan

More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan

 
 
 

 


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