×

Error

There was a problem loading image LEKETlogo11870681_940029516055704_2554505469251269831_n.jpg
×

Message

fsockopen(): unable to connect to ssl://query.yahooapis.com:443 (php_network_getaddresses: getaddrinfo failed: Name or service not known)

 

 Once again, last Wednesday evening the elegant Grand Ballroom of Tel Aviv's Hilton Hotel was the scene of another diplomatic success: the reception honoring the 23rd anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Formerly part of the USSR, Uzbekistan became independent on 31st August 1991.

 

The glittering guest list included members of the diplomatic corps, business and commercial leaders, VIPs of the Uzbek and Russian communities in Israel, Israeli political leaders and other "who's who" of the Israel social calendar.
The reception was graciously hosted by His Excellency the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Israel and Mrs. Oybek Eshonov. The traditional dishes of the country were the focus of the delicious and gargantuan meal, accompanied of course by fine wines and a range of alcoholic and other beverages. Guests mingled happily, renewing old friendships and creating new ones.

 

In welcoming the guests, the Ambassador thanked everyone for being there "[in] celebration of this remarkable day for our country .... Today we are rightfully proud of our achievements in all spheres of our society. The proofs of this progress are easily seen in the enormous changes ... large-scale transformation in our towns, villages and the country as a whole".

 

His Excellency added that "The State of Israel was among the first countries to recognize the independence of Uzbekistan and establish the diplomatic relations. Not many countries have a thousand-year long history of friendship, brotherhood and harmony with the Jewish people. This glorious history is a strong foundation of our friendly relations." He also spoke of the strong commercial ties between Israel and Uzbekistan, and mentioned that Israel remains one of that country's major trading partners. "We are interested in deepening political dialog and expanding trade, cultural and economic ties with the State of Israel". His Excellency ended his address by sending greetings to the people of Israel on the occasion of the upcoming New Year.

 

Representing Israel, and responding to the Ambassador, was MK Yair Lapid, Finance Minister and leader of the "Yesh Atid" political party. Mr. Lapid opened his remarks by congratulating the Republic of Uzbekistan and its people on the occasion of the 23rd anniversary. In his address he noted that: "For over two decades, the strong ties between our countries have been based on mutual respect, close cooperation and of course the large community of immigrants from Uzbekistan here in Israel, and the longstanding Jewish community living in Uzbekistan. Israel will never forget the role that the people of Uzbekistan played in providing shelter and salvation to Jews fleeing [the holocaust] during World War II. And from the past we look to the future". Mr. Lapid spoke of the close relationship between the two countries, and thanked the Ambassador personally for his role in advancing & strengthening the bilateral ties. He concluded: "Please convey to your President and your people our very best wishes on your Independence Day. May the future see prosperity for Uzbekistan and a strengthening of the friendship between our two countries".

 

The two men then drank a toast to the two countries and jointly cut a beautifully decorated cake bearing the flag of Uzbekistan. This was followed by a haunting soprano by Ms. Yulia Masti Moroz, who gave a rendition of the Uzbek national anthem, followed by the national anthem of Israel. A truly elegant occasion.

 

 

 

 

 

 The walls of the ballroom and the foyer leading to the reception were decorated with Uzbek cultural icons and motifs. The spirit was positively Uzbekistan, even though the celebration took place on a pleasant evening on the shores of the Mediterranean in Tel Aviv.

 

Best wishes for many more years of mutual cooperation and success for the two countries, Uzbekistan and Israel.

 

 

 

  Photos : Silvia G. Golan