Diplomatic Events

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Written by Jonathan Danilowitz

Published: 06 December 2015

Celebrating the King of Thailand.

Culturally, Thailand and Israel are worlds apart. But there is so much in Thai art, music, food and nature that Israelis appreciate and enjoy. Thus the Thai atmosphere in the Grand Ballroom of Tel Aviv’s Hilton Hotel last Thursday was especially appealing and welcoming. The cream of Thai and Israeli society gathered to celebrate and congratulate His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 88th birthday, a day also recognized and observed as Thailand’s National Day. Beautiful traditional Thai décor, including baskets of flowers and multicolored decorated and sculpted fruits, Thai silk flowers, and Thai musicians brought especially from Thailand, welcomed and delighted the guests. Cocktails and snacks, including imported Thai beer were served before the formal speeches and dinner. Thailand in Tel Aviv!

Guests included many ambassadors and diplomats, not to mention government, society and business leaders. Amongst others were Dov Kalmann, representative of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)  in Israel, Zvi Gur of El Al Israel Airlines, Asher Roseman of Roseman & Co., and of course, Naomi Hurvitz, Chief Executive and owner of the luxurious Sheva Thai Spa at the Hilton Hotel.

Her Excellency Ambassador Angsana Sihapitak addressed the gathering. In her opening remarks she welcomed the guests and noted that: “His Majesty is the world’s longest-reigning monarch and has reigned over the Kingdom of Thailand for almost 70 years. The name Bhumibol Adulyadej means ‘strength of the land, the incomparable power’. He is the riveting and unifying power of the Thai nation”. The Ambassador paid tribute to His Majesty, his achievements, his work for the good of the people, also pointing out that as a constitutional monarch he is above politics for the betterment of all.

Ambassador Angsana Sihapitak gave a brief overview of Thailand’s political empowerment as a member of ASEAN and other important alliances in S.E. Asia. She continued: “For our bilateral relations with Israel, we appreciate the stance of the Israeli government for their constructive gesture and understanding. Thailand & Israel have enjoyed the excellent relationship in all aspects throughout the sixty years of diplomatic relations (that we celebrated last year).

“The Thai-Israel Friendship Foundation was established in 1985, under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Mahachakri Sirindhorn who visited Israel in 1977 accompanied by Her Royal younger sister Princess Chulabhorn, to promote a long-lasting friendship and cultural exchange. In 1996 a Thai Pavilion was built in Modi’in Park, situated near the site of “Thailand-Israel Friendship Grove” where over a thousand trees were planted by the Friendship Foundation earlier in 1989, to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the throne.”

In conclusion, she proposed a toast to the good health and happiness of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and to the long lasting friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the State of Israel.

The Thai musicians then played the Thai National Anthem.

On behalf of the State of Israel, the government and the people of Israel, Knesset Member Mr. Miki Zohar responded. First, he warmly congratulated His Majesty the King, and continued: “This year we mark the 61st anniversary of the diplomatic relations between our countries. We look forward to continuing the pace of work and cooperation in a variety of fields. We have already held many events both in Thailand and in Israel, and more are yet to come.”

The Minister mentioned several cooperative projects, and then moved on to tourism: “Over 150,000 Israelis visit Thailand each year. El Al Israel Airlines operates a daily flight, and sometimes even twice a day, between Tel Aviv and Bangkok. Your country is the leading Asian tourist destination for the Israelis.

“Madam Ambassador, please convey our warm congratulations to your government and to the Thai People on the occasion of your National Day. May Thailand enjoy peace and prosperity, and may the ties of friendship and cooperation between Israel and Thailand become even stronger in the years ahead.”

Then too, the musicians played the Israeli National Anthem.

A lavish buffet dinner followed, but not before a striking display of traditional Thai dancing by professionals in Thai national dress. The grace and beauty delivered a note of Thai culture to the Israeli audience, and, we feel sure, a sense of well-being of “at home” for the Thai guests. The Thai musicians also played a striking version of the popular Israeli melody, “Hava Nagila”.

Yes, strong ties exist between Thailand and Israel.

 Photos Silvia G  Golan

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Written by Jonathan Danilowitz

Published: 01 December 2015

A truly glittering gathering of diplomats, celebrities, society leaders and business associates assembled at the ambassadorial residence of his Excellency Shigeo Matsutori, Ambassador of Japan to the State of Israel, and his wife Mrs. Kaori Matsutomi, at their lovely Herzlia Pituach home. The celebration was in honor of the 82nd birthday of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Akihito of Japan. Needless to say, Japanese art and culture were everywhere. For Israelis, the classic formal greetings and bows between the Japanese (and between in-the-know westerners and their Japanese counterparts) are a breath of fresh air. There was much fresh air that evening, which added to the grace and charm.

Also adding to the charm was the display of a genuine formal tea ceremony by properly-clad Japanese hostesses; not to mention the wide array of saké, Japanese beers, wines and other beverages at the generous bar. Guests mingled and chatted, renewing old friendships and making news ones as snacks and drinks were served before the formal speeches and dinner. Among the guests were their Excellencies the Ambassadors of Spain, Zambia, Thailand, Georgia, Panama, Myanmar, South Africa and many others; the charges d’affaires and cultural and military attaches of many embassies in Israel; present and former members of the Knesset and other Israeli governmental officials. To mention just three important attendees by name: Eli Lancman, Chairman of the Israel-Japan Friendship Society; Ehud Rassabi, Honorary President of the Society and the Chamber of Commerce; and Ze’ev Lavie, Director of the Israeli Federation of Chambers of Commerce.

Entertaining the guests during the cocktails were an accomplished flautist and violinist, playing Japanese melodies. The formal segment of the evening began by them playing beautiful renditions of the Japanese national anthem, followed by that of Israel.

His Excellency the Japanese Ambassador opened his remarks by thanking everyone for attending, mentioning in particular Israel’s Minister of Environmental Protection, Avi Gabai, and Israel’s Attorney-General, Yehuda Weinstein. Ambassador Matsutori made special mention of, and sent his condolences to the victims of, the “sorrowful incident” of terror in Paris. He added: “In this context, I believe we have a lot to learn from Israel in its spirit and resolution, defying terror, fighting back terror and making progress way forwards for nation building.” He also spoke of Japan’s interest in furthering a possible two-state solution leading to peace between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, noting that Japan also has problems and disputes with some of its neighboring countries and adding that: “I hope both Israel and the Palestine Authority will pedal more vigorously and visibly towards the peace.”

The Ambassador spoke of the excellent bilateral relations between his country and Israel: “I would like to emphasize that, thanks to mutual visits at the highest level, there has been great progress in the bilateral relationship in the political, economic and cultural arenas, particularly economic and business interaction is coming to a next dimension.” He noted that a Japanese airline began flights to Tel Aviv under a code-share agreement in October; new visa systems have been introduced, first for qualified engineers, with more to come (next for students); Japanese mega businesses have started coming to Israel while their corporate profits reach historic highs; and that a bilateral investment treaty is being negotiated, “the first of the kind Israel ever has with liberalization compacts. We are at a final stage and I hope it will come soon.”

On a note of sadness Ambassador Matsutori noted that he has only four more weeks to serve in his post in Israel and that: “My wife Kaori and I are very sorry to leave now just as our bilateral relationship is taking high momentum, and also in private life, my wife and myself, have so much enjoyed staying here in Israel. We’re very sad to be separated from many good friends …. In conclusion, I wish to propose a toast to the continued good health of Their Majesties as well as each one of you present here, and to an even more fruitful friendship between our two countries.”

Minister Gabai responded on behalf of the Government and the State of Israel and its people. He followed his warm congratulations by noting that although Japan and Israel are geographically at the two extreme opposite ends of Asia, the two countries have very warm and close ties. “Japan is a good friend, a like-minded country. There are mutual interests and investments, and these have led to good and lasting bilateral ties”. The Minister added that he had attended several diplomatic events in the past, but could not recall such a well-attended and beautiful one.

“The direct dialogue between our leaderships has allowed us to reach important agreements, mainly in the areas of science, technological innovation, cyber and homeland security. This is why among other things, Israel decided to extend and widen its activities throughout Japan. Just a few days ago, on November 16th, we opened a new Trade Office in Osaka. To add to that, an agreement for encouraging mutual investments will be signed soon and will send a strong signal to both sides. Japan has been for many years at the cutting edge of environmental technology and innovation – an inspiration worldwide. Japan is also at the forefront in moving from waste to sound materials management and I, as the Minister of Environmental Protection, believe we could learn a lot from your knowledge and experience. We are committed to continue and strengthen the good relations which exist between us.”

He asked the Ambassador to convey respectful good wishes and congratulations to the Emperor and to the people of Japan.

Needless to say, sushi, tempura and yakitori featured on the dinner buffet that followed, but also Spanish paella, Chinese dim-sum and American beef. Not to mention a special section featuring kosher dishes for observant guests. The saké flowed like water, and guests were offered a recipe leaflet to enable them to try the Japanese dishes at home. Maguro namerou, anyone?

 Photos : Silvia  G. Golan

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Written by Jonathan Danilowitz

Published: 04 December 2015

Romania Celebrates its National Day in Israel

The grand lobby of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art was the scene of an elegant gathering of the Israeli Diplomatic corps and other VIPs on Monday evening on the occasion of the National Day of Romania. The event was hosted by her Excellency Ambassador Andreea Păstârnac, the Romanian Embassy and the Romanian Cultural Institute. “Bine aţi venit” (welcome) was the heading on the video above the podium, and indeed, the large Romanian-society presence plus Ambassadors, diplomats and other VIPs felt warmly welcomed. Among the guests were Shlomo Keidar, board member, and Micha Harish, chairman, of A.M.I.R. – the roof organization of Romanian immigrants to Israel; Knesset member Prof. Yossie Yonah; Dr. Rosalie Sitman, head of Tel Aviv University’s Foreign Languages Division; Michail Terzimpasis, Director of the Greek National Tourism Organization in Israel; Nico Nitai, Manager & Artistic Director of Tel Aviv’s Karov Theater; Meron Reuben, Israel’s Chief of State Protocol; Ambassador Shlomo Morgan of the Israeli Foreign Ministry; and Baldi Olier, Romanian-born flamenco guitarist described by “The Jerusalem Post” as Israel's undisputed king of flamenco.

Guests enjoyed a buffet of snacks while mingling and renewing friendships and making new ones. Besides soft and other drinks, a range of fine Romanian wines was on offer, including Nomad Feteasca Neagra 2009 and several crisp whites. Large companies, Romanian and Israeli, added their cache to the event, proving sponsorships and support, TAROM being the major sponsor. Others included the Ben Haim and Carmel Wineries, Sixt, Sano, Elbit Systems, Bank Leumi, Ophir Tours and more.

After a brief introduction, the Romanian singer, actor and entertainer Sofia Vicoveanca presented haunting Romanian folklore songs. Ambassador Andreea Păstârnac then addressed the gathering, as usual, in her fluent Hebrew. She welcomed the guests who had joined in to celebrate her country’s National Day. “On December 1st 1918, in the aftermath of the Great War, the Great Union was accomplished. This year, today, on this occasion, I would like to mention the role of the Jewish soldiers, who fought shoulder to shoulder with the Romanian soldiers, in order to fulfil the national dream… their courage will be always remembered.”

“Terrorism has no borders and creates victims all over the world, here, in Europe, in France, Belgium and in other countries. Unfortunately, terrorism strikes in Israel too, and I convey my condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the victims. Since its inception as a state, Israel paid and will continue to pay a heavy price in the fight against terrorism. Romania too faces difficult times. We are all aware of the tragedy that occurred during the concert in the “Colectiv” club, where 60 young people died. There were debates about the way the Romanian society responds to this kind of challenge.” The gathering then responded to her call for a minute’s silence “ …. in memory of the victims in Bucharest and for the victims of terrorism.”

“It is in our nature to remember close friends. When the tragedy occurred, Israel was the first country who sent help in Romania. Together with the doctors, skin for transplants and a cream-drug to help faster recovery from burns were brought to Romania. Hadassah and Tel Ha’shomer hospitals received three wounded Romanians, but unfortunately, one of them died in Hadassah. Today, we have good news regarding the other two wounded treated at Tel Ha’shomer. We send them our best wishes and we hope they will be able to return home soon. Our most heartfelt thanks to you.”

Ambassador Păstârnac then introduced some of the Israeli medical teams that had responded so courageously; Dr. Shoham Yaron, Dr. Nimrod Parver, Dr. Monica Sandu, Prof. David Linton and others. “We would also like to thank Dr. Herman Bercovici, Honorary Consul of Romania to the State of Israel and the personal doctor of the Israeli Prime Minister, who spared no efforts to assemble the help needed and send it to Romania.”

On a lighter note the Ambassador spoke of the Romanian wine culture and its implications for viticulture in Israel. A most pleasing connection.

Israel’s Minister of Health, Yaakov Litzman, responded: “I am pleased and honored to represent the Government and the people of Israel in congratulating Romania on the occasion of its National Day. Israel values the very good and special relations existing between our two countries since the creation of the State. Romania is the only country of the former Eastern Bloc that maintained its diplomatic relations all along this period.

“We welcome the close cooperation between us in the political strategic economic and cultural fields. Both countries are willing to expand this cooperation for the benefit of all.

“Israel highly appreciates the support of the Romanian Government to the Jewish community in Romania and also its support Holocaust-related issues and the fight against anti-Semitism. In this context, Israel congratulates Romania on assuming the Chairmanship of IHRA (International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance) in 2016. The 400,000 strong community of Israelis originating in Romania has made a very important contribution to the building of the State and they serve as an additional bridge in the relationship between both our countries.

“Finally I wish to congratulate the Ambassador of Romania and her staff for their vigorous activity to promote the relations between the two countries and peoples. To conclude, Madam Ambassador, please convey to the President of Romania, its Government and its People our best wishes for your National Day. May Romania enjoy stability and prosperity and may the relations of friendship between Israel and Romania continue to expand and flourish in the years to come.”

 Photos : Silvia G. Golan

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Written by Jonathan Danilowitz

Published: 19 November 2015

Angola Celebrates 40 years of Independence.

Independence for any country is the diamond in the crown. Angola gained independence after 500 years of colonial occupation, followed by 14 years of civil war. The relief, the incentive, the independence are a fabulous reward.

Last Sunday evening the Angolan Ambassador to Israel, his Excellency Feliciano Antonio dos Santos and his wife hosted a charming celebration of the 40 years of Angolan independence, at Tel Aviv’s Dan Panorama Hotel ballroom. Ambassadors and Diplomats graced the event, together with the cream of Israel’s business and social community. Among the Ambassadors who honored Angola with their presence were their excellences from The Philippines, South Africa, Japan, Ghana, Zambia, in addition to His Excellency Raphael Singer, Israel’s Ambassador to Angola, who came to be here for the event, and more.

A delicious and generous dinner preceded the formal events, which began with a rendition of the national anthems of Angola and Israel. Then His Excellency Ambassador dos Santos addressed the gathering, welcoming the guests and thanking them for attending. He pointed out that: “The Angolan people, led by President José Eduardo dos Santos, are building a new Angola. It is this Angola that you can see in the photographs displayed here and the video being screened at this event.” Angola is the second major oil producer on the African continent and the fifth largest producer of diamonds in the world, so the current drop in oil prices has not done Angola any good, to say the least.

His Excellency continued: “The spectacular socio-economic growth of Angola, the most visible aspect of which is the construction of thousands of kilometers of roads, railways, new airports, new cities, hospitals and schools, accompanied by a promising national plan of executive training programs, has obviously had the participation of companies and businessmen from friendly countries, such as Israel. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Israeli companies and businessmen who operate projects in Angola, some of whom are present here with us today.” He mentioned the importance of cooperation by investors and added: “Your Excellency, Mrs. Gila Gamliel [representing the State of Israel at the event], allow me to stress my country's satisfaction with the excellent state of our bilateral cooperation and to express my wish to see it strengthened even further.”

The Ambassador stressed his country’s contribution to the United Nations, and its standpoint regarding peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, leading to a: “…peaceful and lasting solution based on two states, living side by side in peace and security.” He ended his address by reaffirming Angola’s commitment to see the process of peace negotiations resumed between the government of the State of Israel and the Palestinian National Authority.

Knesset Member Gila Gamliel responded on behalf of the State of Israel and its people. She warmly congratulated the Government and the people of Angola on the occasion of the country’s 40th anniversary. She added that the two countries have had a firm relationship for over 20 years, including diplomatic ties and cooperation in business, agriculture, water and energy. “We also see Angola as a partner in culture, the arts and education, with the goal of enhancing our people-to-people relations.” Ms. Gamliel noted the importance that Israel attaches to Angola’s UN positions, and expressed the hope that Angola would use its influence to help Israel regain its status as an Observer State in the African Union.

But she also spared no words when mentioning the radical Islamic terror that had recently raised its ugly head, not only in Israel, but now in Paris too. Her harsh criticism of the way some nations have responded to terror against Israel reflected the embodiment of Israel’s disappointment.

MK Gamliel ended her address by asking the Ambassador to convey “hearty warm wishes of the Government and people of Israel to the Government and people of Angola. We wish Angola peace, stability and prosperity … and good relations and friendship between the State of Israel and the Republic of Angola”.

A beautiful cake with the Angolan flag was cut by the two dignitaries, after sharing a glass of champagne and drinking to one another’s health.

 Photos att Angola Embassy