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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On Thursday evening, 30 January 2025, H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the State of Israel hosted a reception in honour of her country's 32 anniversary of independence at the Dan, Tel Aviv.
Mr. Peter Karpo Prince, P.A. to the Ambassador, Master of Ceremonies, warmly welcomed everyone present followed by the Ambassador's speech.
H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova cordially greeted and welcomed all guests to the Slovak Republic's 32 year anniversary celebration which was declared on the 1st of January 1993 after peacefully splitting from Czechoslovakia which was shared with the present Czech Republic. On the eve of the declaration of independence, 93 countries recognized Slovakia statehood including Israel. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to IAI Israel Aerospace Industries . If ever Slovakia had to face hardships, it was nothing in comparison to the hardships Israel experienced during its War of Independence in 1948. She emotionally stated that nothing is more important than bringing each and every hostage home to their families.
Representing the State of Israel was H.E. Ms. May Golan, Minister of Social Equality and the Advancement of the Status of Women in Israel. The synergy between her and the Ambassador was palpable as she started her address by expressing her admiration for the Ambassador, finding her a source of inspiration. In these challenging times your presence here today is cherished. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to the Ambassador by thanking her for her support during the challenging times Israel is facing. She paid homage to Guy Khalifa, a dual Slovak - Israeli citizen who was murdered at the Nova festival. The Minister also mentioned that she looks forward to welcoming Slovakia leadership, hopefully in the not too distant future. She also wished Slovakia's Prime Minister, Mr. Robert Fico, who less than a year ago survived an assasination attempt, a speedy and complete recovery. Recently an Air Defence agreement was signed between the two countries, being the most important to date. She referred to the strong bond between Israel and Slovakia and made reference to Slovakia's large Jewish population preceding World War 11. In 2016 the Slovak Republic established a Holocaust Museum and in 2021 a governmental apology was made with reference to the Holocaust. Since bi - latreal relations were established, trade, technology, education and culture has thrived between the two countries. She made mention of the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem, established in 2021 under the directorship of Jabuk Urik. In conclusion, the Minister wished the Slovak Republic peace,stability and economic prosperity for the future.
On behalf of the International Book Illustration Fair under the auspices of Unesco held in Bratislava, the Ambassador awarded second prize to Israeli artist, Ms. Maya Shleifer as she was unable to attend the ceremony in 2023 due to restrictions as a result of the worldwide Covid pandemic.
Mr. Jan Bogdan,a cellist from Kosice, Slovakia and a student at the Buchmann Mehta School of Music in Tel Aviv played Bach's Suite number 1 prelude. He is currently preparing to compete in an international Cello competition in the People's Republic of China.
A large buffet was served in an adjoining hall, accompanied by an array of dishes from roasted assado, pierogi, sausages, fish, salads, deserts and seasonal fruits.
Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates H.E. Ms. Barbara Mestanova and the Embassy staff on the 32nd anniversary of Slovak statehood and for their generous,gracious and warm hospitality.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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- Written by Silvia Golan & Stephen Abrahams
On Wednesday evening, 22 January 2025, a large and elaborate Chinese New Year reception was hosted by H..E. Mr. Xiao Junzheng, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the State of Israel at the Hilton hotel, Tel Aviv.
Two months ago, the Chinese New Year, also referred to as Spring Festival, was inscribed on Unesco's intangible cultural heritage list of humanity. The Chinese New Year inaugurates the spring season and also celebrates family reunions. In China people travel great distances to celebrate the week of New Year with their loved ones. It strengthens family ties reflecting values of harmony between humans and nature.
The ceremony started by the singing of both national anthems i.e. the People's Republic of China and Israel.
An audio visual message by the President of Israel, H.E. Mr. Isaac Herzog was shown on three large screens. In his message he conveyed his pleasure to have accepted the credentials of the People's Republic newly arrived ambassador, H.E. Mr. Xiao Junzheng. He also stated that the forthcoming Chinese New Year is represented by the snake, symbolizing renewal and transformation. The People's Republic of China and Israel has entered its fourth decade of bi - lateral relations, which the incumbent President's father was instrumental in establishing as he was the first Israeli President to visit China. In conclusion, the President stated that due to the People's Republic of China's geopolitical strategic position, it can help to counter global terrorism.
A video was screened and produced by the P.R. of China's official news agency, the Xinhua News Agency. Despite the upheaval experienced in Israel since 7 October 2023, Chinese businesses continued as usual participating in Israel's economic development. China's Hainan Airlines continued flying and Chinese construction workers continued relentlessly showing their dedication. Students from China in Israel, travel enormous distances to be here and return home bringing back their knowledge to China.
Two musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments from the city of Changzhou entertained the guests with two short duos. Their performance was followed by a traditional classical solo dance entitled "The Crystal Waves" accompanied by visual images on the three screens.
Four musicians from the Israel Philharmonic played "Spring" from Antonio Vivaldi's Four Seasons, a three movement composition.
A musician from Guzheng played a solo on a traditional Chinese instrument followed by a sumptuous buffet of Chinese dumplings, sirloin, salmon, pasta and vegetables as well as a large selection of deserts followed by coffee and tea. A bar located in the centre of the banquet hall served wines from Yatir, an exclusive winery in the Negev.
The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Xiao Jungzeng began his address by wishing Chinese living in Israel as Israeli friends of the Embassy a Happy New Year. In 2024, the 75 anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China was celebrated, China's economy has rebounded and is on an upward trajectory. China's export volume grew to more than 25 trillion yuan and its foreign trade peaked to $ 6.2 trillion marking a 5% increase. Within one year, more than 10 million new energy vehicles have been produced.
Eighty two countries have joined the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative and 119 countries and international organizations have announced their support for the Global Security Initiative. Deeper advances have been made in the high quality Belt and Road cooperation project joined by 155 countries.
China - Israel relations have grown steadily despite challenges. Practical cooperation in various fields have yielded fruitful outcomes bringing benefits to both peoples. 20 000 Chinese workers have remained to work in Israel during the conflict and China's Hainan Airlines are planning to increase its flight frequency. The new Haifa Port and the Tel Aviv Red Line light rail are functioning. The China - Israel Changzhou Innovation Park and the China - Israel Innovation Hub in Shanghai are progressing smoothly which has become a highlight of innovation between our two countries. Chinese electric cars are popular in Israel accounting for almost 70% of the local market. Chinese students, journalists and the Chinese community in Israel work hard at their posts intensifying and improving relations between China and Israel.
In 2025 China will prepare a new five year plan promoting modernization through high quality development, making a greater contribution to world peace and progress. 2025 also marks the 80th anniversary of the World Anti - Fascist War and the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese aggression.
During World War 11, Chinese cities namely Shanghai, Harbin and Tianjin accomodated a great number of Jewish refugees.
China welcomes the new ceasefire agreement and hostage release from Gaza and firmly hopes that the agreement will be firmly implemented ensuring that Israeli hostages will return home safely and that regional peace and stability will soon be restored.
33 Years of Chinese and Israeli bilateral relations will be celebrated in two days. Since my arrival here almost two months ago, I have met many Israeli people from different sectors as well as spoken to representatives from Chinese companies and communities in Israel. From my interaction I feel a robust resilience, promising future and great potential between us.
The Ambassador concluded by wishing everyone a Happy New Year and the retrospective countries peace and prosperity.
Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Xiao Jungzeng welcoming all guests:
The Chinese New Year dinner in the south of the country always includes fish as it symbolizes prosperity. In the north of the country dumplings are served as it represents reunion. The world's longest and most viewed Gala programme is enjoyed by Chinese citizens and shown on New Year's eve.The custom of giving and receiving red envelopes containing money, primarily to children is practised. Today red envelopes are sent digitally.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the Ambassador of China, H.E. Xiao Junzheng and the Embassy staff "Xin Nian Kuai le" and are grateful for their gracious, generous, inimitable and kind hospitality.
Photos credit Silvia Golan
More Pics & videos at Facebook Diplomacy Israel / Israel Diplo / Silvia G Golan
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- Written by Silvia G Golan
The President of the Republic of Paraguay, H.E. Mr. Santiago Peña : "excited to receive the Friends of Zion Award, One of the Most Prestigious Awards".
The President of the Republic of Paraguay, H.E. Mr. Santiago Peña received The Friends of Zion Award at the Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem. The evening was attended by 250 guests, including the President of Paraguay and his wife, the members of the Paraguay delegation among them Minister of Foreign Affairs of Paraguay, the Speaker of the Parliament of Paraguay, the Paraguayan Ambassador to Israel, the ambassadors of Argentina, Japan, Thailand, Mexico, Brazil, the Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana, the Minister of Culture Miki Zohar, Mayor of Jerusalem Moshe Lion, First Chief Rabbi of Israel David Yosef, Deputy Foreign Minister Sharan Haskel, MK Boaz Bismuth, Foreign Ministry officials, CEO of Kol Israel David Borowitz Yaari, businessmen and other VIP. The evening was moderated by Fleur Hassan Nahum- special advisor for the ministry of foreign affairs.
The Friends of Zion Heritage Center in Jerusalem in cooperation with Kol Israel hosted an event in honor of the President, His Excellency Santiago Peña Palacios, where he was presented with the Friends of Zion Award for his steadfast support of Israel and in appreciation for the historic relocation of the Paraguayan Embassy to 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 23 world leaders, including former US President George Bush, former US President Donald Trump, and former Vice President Mike Pence.
- Sharan Haskel, the vice minister of foreign affairs, CEO of Friends of Zion Museum, Mr. Daniel Voiczek, Kolonel Yossi Peled chairman of the Israeli bord of Friends of Zion and CEO of Kol Israel David Borowitz Yaari presented President of the Republic of Paraguay, H.E. Mr. Santiago Peña with the prestigious Friends of Zion Award for his activities to strengthen ties between Israel and Paraguay and in appreciation for the historic relocation of the Paraguayan Embassy to Jerusalem.
H.E. Mr Santiago Peña received The Friends of Zion Award and expressed his deep gratitude to the Friends of Zion and said: " I am honored and excited to receive the Friends of Zion Award, One of the Most Prestigious Awards and to join the people who are truly Friends of Zion. I will cherish and treasure this award. My support for Israel is total. This is a difficult time for the state of Israel, and I am here to tell you that all the people of Paraguay stands with Israel and will continue to act and assist Israel".
Dr. Mike Evans, Founder of FOZ commented, "It is my privilege to present the President of the Republic of Paraguay, H.E. Santiago Peña Palacios, with this award as I had the honor to present this award to President Donald Trump in the Oval Office."
CEO of Friends of Zion Museum, Mr. Daniel Voiczek: "In a time when leadership often calls for difficult choices, President Santiago Peña has exemplified unwavering conviction and integrity. His bold decision to move Paraguay's embassy to Jerusalem was not merely a diplomatic gesture but a profound statement of friendship, solidarity, and respect. This act of bravery affirms Paraguay's recognition of Jerusalem as the eternal capital of the Jewish people, a truth deeply rooted in history and faith. Tonight we honor you not just as a head of state but as a true friend of Zion. Your unwavering support has strengthened the bonds between Paraguay and Israel, reflecting a shared commitment to the values of freedom, peace, and mutual respect".
Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Lion : “To move the embassy to Jerusalem testifies to the deep friendship between Paraguay and Israel - a friendship built on shared values, mutual respect, and a shared determination against hatred and terrorism. Our two countries understand the cost of defending freedom and dignity. The bond between Paraguay and Israel is strong, and it is anchored in our shared appreciation for Jerusalem. We are deeply inspired by The Paraguayan nation commitment to this city and our friends“
David Yaari, Chairman of the Kol Israel party in the World Zionist Organization says, "We salute the President and People of Paraguay for their steadfast support of Israel and recognize the passionate and engage Jewish community in Paraguay. Kol Israel was instrumental in creating, for the first time in history, a Zionist Federation in Paraguay. We are delighted that they are able to celebrate with us the moving of Paraguayan Embassy to Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the Jewish people."
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
Kol Israel is a leading party in the World Zionist Organization and is the proud flagbearer of modern General Zionism. The party advances the aspirations of global Jewry in its relationship with Israel, serving as a unifying home for all Jews and Zionists who wish to connect to Israel without labels or divisions. As an a-political and non-denominational faction, Kol Israel brings together Jews from all walks of life with a mission to educate, inspire and invest in the next generation of Jewish leaders and activists and restore innovation to the Zionist movement, ensuring the continuity of the Jewish people’s enduring connection to Israel.
www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government of the Paraguay Republic and the Embassy and expresses its deep appreciation for their loyal and unswerving friendship
Photos credit Yossi Zamir
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- Written by Silvia G Golan
The Embassy of the Argentine Republic in the State of Israel, the Israeli President and the Israeli MFA held a reception to celebrate the 75th year of the relationship between Argentina and Israel on Monday 15th December at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , at the city of Jerusalem
The event took place in the presence of the President of Israel Mr. Isaac Herzog, the Argentinian Embassador to Israel H.E. Rabbi Shimon Axel Wahnish, the Israel Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar , the Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana and additional ministers and Knesset members
Today (16.12) the Argentine Embassy in Israel held an event at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to mark the 75th anniversary of relations between Israel and Argentina. The event was chaired by the President of the State, Mr. Yitzhak Herzog, the Speaker of the Knesset, Mr. Amir Ohana, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gideon Saar, and the Argentine Ambassador to Israel, Shimon Axel Wahnish.
The event opened with a reception at which an exhibition by the Argentine artist Oscar Soler was presented, entitled: "Bridges between Buenos Aires and Jerusalem" which presents paintings and drawings of iconic buildings in the two cities. Each of the works of art not only teaches about the unique architecture in each of the cities but also reflects the culture and history of the countries. The exhibition will be displayed in the entrance hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jerusalem next month as a sign of the close ties between the two countries that began back in 1949.
Argentina has the largest Jewish community on the South American continent. In Israel, the Argentine community is deeply involved in Israeli society. In recognition of the community's activities in Israel and the committees for relations between peoples, the Ambassador honored four prominent members of the Argentine community in Israel who, through their public work, serve as a bridge between peoples; former Knesset member and economist Mr. Manuel Trachtenberg, Yad Vashem Chairman Mr. Danny Dayan, Mishraide Ms. Tali Grossaus, and soccer player Mr. Marco Wolf.
Argentina is the first country in South America to designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organization, and last July, President Millay declared Hamas a terrorist organization. It was recently elected president of the IHRA and is the only country on the continent to be a full member of the organization. Argentina is working with Israel to try to free the dual-citizen abductees in Gaza, including the Bibas family. The event was attended by families of abductees and ransomed captives with Argentine citizenship, who were invited to the stage to call for the rapid release of the 100 abductees held by Hamas.
*President of the State Isaac Herzog:* "It is a great honor to celebrate a courageous and beautiful friendship between nations. The ties between us have expanded in many new directions, and there is no doubt that the bridges between us have become stronger than ever under the leadership of my dear friend, President Javier Milley, who, after the brutal massacre of October 7, came to Israel on a visit of solidarity. Now, in Israel, in Argentina, and around the world, we continue to hear the cries of our brothers and sisters, including Argentine citizens, who are still in the tunnels in Gaza. We continue to cry out and demand together that this heinous and ongoing crime against humanity be ended."
*Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana:* “Under the leadership of President Milley, the relationship between Israel and Argentina has never been better. I experienced the warmth of friendship just a few months ago, during my visit to Buenos Aires, where I met with President Millay, his cabinet ministers, and my colleague, Speaker of the House of Representatives Martin Menem. In the midst of the traumatic period we are experiencing, Argentina has become the North Star of freedom and a moral conscience that resonates on the world stage, including in its defense of Israel against the hypocrisy of the United Nations. We have come here today to thank President Millay, the Parliament, and the Argentine people for the special bond we share. For seventy-five years, our alliance has not only stood the test of time – it is reaching its peak.”
*Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar:* "Unfortunately, we also have a history of shared tragedies, which we are still experiencing today. On October 7, Hamas' brutal terrorist attacks took the lives of many Israeli-Argentine citizens. Among the hostages still held captive by Hamas are Israeli and Argentine citizens. Israel and Argentina stand together on this issue. *Israel is committed to reaching a deal to release the hostages.* I would like to thank President Javier Milley and Foreign Minister Gerardo Vertijn for their commitment to strengthening the friendship between the countries. Under President Milley's leadership, Argentina has entered a new era. We *thank our dear friend, President Milley, for his announcement that he intends to move the Argentine embassy to Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the Jewish people.* I intend to make every effort to strengthen the ties between our countries. I plan to visit Buenos Aires this coming March, along with a delegation from the private sector. This will be an opportunity to advance our ties to the next level."
*Argentine Ambassador to Israel Shimon Axel and Wahnish:* "Argentina has been a partner of Israel for 74 years. Today, as we celebrate 75 years of relations between the countries, under President Javier Millay, Argentina becomes a friend. As part of the close relations between the countries, they are working on a joint agreement that will be a counter to the agreement that the Argentine government signed at the time with Iran. The goal of this agreement is to promote democracy, freedom and fight terrorism. True friends are revealed in moments of crisis. From the first moment of his presidency, President Millay supported Israel's right to defend itself, condemned the brutality of the attack by the Hamas terrorist organization and called for the immediate release of all the kidnapped men and women."
Photos credit
Shlomi Amzalem / GPO
Haim Zach / GPO
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- Written by Greer Fay Cashman / Jerusalem Post
Grapevine - A suitable match By GREER GAY CASHMAN
NO MINISTER could have been more suitable to represent the Israel government at the reception hosted by Thailand’s Ambassador Pannabha Chandraramya in celebration of her country’s national day than Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter, given that the overwhelming majority of Thai workers in Israel work in agriculture.
Thai ambassadors usually serve in Israel for two or three years. Chandraramya is a rare exception, in that, when she concludes her term here in February 2024, she will have served just over five years. Part of the reason is that Thai workers were among the victims and hostages of Hamas. Eight are still in Gaza, two of them unfortunately dead. One of the other reasons is her greatly appreciated work in strengthening relations in all spheres between Thailand and Israel where she has developed many friends as seen by the fond attention she received at the reception, held at the Israel Air Force Center in Herzliya.
Thai citizens are extremely patriotic and the ambassador and Embassy staff were all attired in colorful national costumes made from Thai silk – mostly in lilac or bright yellow. In addition, they still revere their late king, Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was committed to the welfare of the Thai people and worked arduously to improve the quality of life of all his citizens. His son, King Maha Vajirlongkorn is following in his footsteps, said the ambassador. Large portraits of both monarchs were featured on stage, with yellow roses beneath each portrait.
Israel and Thailand have had official relations since 1954, which makes 2024 a significant anniversary year. In addition, December 5 is both the national day of the Kingdom of Thailand and the anniversary of the birth of king Bhumibol, in front of whose portrait the ambassador bowed before delivering her speech. It’s also Father’s Day in Thailand, she said.
Speaking of the strong bonds between Thailand and Israel, Chandraramya cited the visit to Thailand by a delegation of Israeli start-ups. Thailand has been the destination of choice for 450,000 Israelis during the past year. There are also ongoing people-to-people contacts through the 30,000 Thai workers in Israel who contribute to the country’s agricultural output and its economy. Chandraramya also underscored that Thailand and Israel have a strong and lasting partnership.
Dichter referred to the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in honor of which 70 trees had been planted in the Ben Shemen Forest as a symbol of lasting partnership.
Israel cannot ignore the fact that Thais were among the victims in the Hamas massacre, he noted, emphasizing “We have a responsibility to the 41 Thai citizens brutally murdered.” The tragedy was not confined to Gaza, he said, but was continuing in the North.
To illustrate the strong link between Thailand and Israel, Dichter related that many of the Thai workers had wanted to go home and visit their families after surviving October 7. He had gone to wish them well on the day before they left Israel, and one had asked him whether he could come back in a few months. Dichter had replied in the affirmative and then asked how many others wanted to come back, and all raised their hands.
IS A truce between Russia and Ukraine in the offing? That would certainly be a reason for the good spirits of Russian Ambassador Anatoly Viktorov, warmly greeted by many of the guests attending the Thai National Day reception. For much of the period of the war between Russia and Ukraine, Viktorov has walked around with a stern expression on his face, and some people have taken care to avoid him, whereas previously they had basked in his company. However, it appears that relations are getting back to what they were.
Photos by Nora Davidovitz
