A large crowd of diplomats, captains of industry and commerce, cultural icons and other invited guests gathered in the grand ballroom of Tel Aviv’s Hilton Hotel on the 5th September to celebrate Uzbekistan’s 21st Independence Day. The lavish reception was hosted by His Excellency Oybek A. Eshonov, Ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Israel, and his gracious wife Mohira Eshonova.
In addressing the assembled company, the Ambassador spoke with pride of the achievements of the Uzbek people in all spheres of society. “Our economy and social infrastructure are in constant progress … standards of living rise steadily”. Ambassador Eshonov also spoke warmly of the 20 years of solid diplomatic relations his country enjoys with Israel. “Israel is our friendly and significant partner in the Middle East. Uzbekistan places special importance in deepening our political dialog and expanding trade and cultural affairs with the State of Israel.” The Ambassador ended his address by taking the opportunity to express his thanks to the guests for coming to celebrate with him, and to wish “prosperity and millions of days of joy” to the Israeli people on the occasion of the approaching Rosh Hashanah holidays.
Photos by Silvia Golan
Responding on behalf of the State of Israel, Minister for Environmental Protection Mr. Gilad Erdan toasted the people of Uzbekistan on their achievements. He also pointed out that Israel was one of the very first countries to recognize Uzbekistan and to forge reciprocal diplomatic ties some 20 years ago, and that the diplomatic relations have always been warm and friendly. Mr. Erdan spoke of the Jewish community in Uzbekistan which has flourished culturally and economically under the guidance of the government there. Tourist exchanges are on the increase, as are cultural and agricultural exchanges. The Minister wished the people of Uzbekistan continuing success and advancement.
Photos by Silvia Golan
Beautiful renderings of the national anthems of Uzbekistan and of Israel were presented by Uzbeki-Israeli star Ms. Julia Masti. Especially for this event, the Uzbekistan embassy brought the well-known folklore band “Parizoda”, led by the inimitable singer and dancer Yulduz Usmanova, from Uzbekistan to Israel to entertain the guests while they mingled and enjoyed the sumptuous meal, with many Uzbek delicacies, and topped off by a gigantic cake in the form of the Uzbekistan national flag.
Mazal tov to Uzbekistan
