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Embassy of Italy - 80 Anniversario della Repubblica Italiana (1946 - 2026) Dan Hotel, Tel Aviv
On Tuesday evening, the 2nd of June 2026, the Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Luca and Mrs. Mariachiara Ferrari hosted a lavish reception at the Dan Hotel, Tel Aviv, in honour of Italy's 80th anniversary of being a Republic.
Italy officially became a republic on the 2nd of June 1946, following a historic constitutional referendum where the Italian people voted to abolish the monarchy.
Outside Tel Aviv's iconic Dan Hotel on a red carpet, guests were mesmerized by two of Alfa Romeo's latest models that were on display.
Members of the Carabinieri were ceremonially dressed in their striking uniforms dating back to the Napoleonic era in dark coloured palettes and hats with feathers. The Carabinieri are one of Italy's principal national law enforcement agencies, functioning as both a civilian police force and a branch of the Italian Armed Forces.
The stage and tables in the banquet room were decorated with flowers denoting Italy's national colours.
In the hotel's lobby there were two exhibitions, one exhibition of photos and logos by Alfa Romeo and the other exhibition by Stream Yachts who have 11 models of yachts available in Israel (with branches in Athens, Corfu, Gibraltar and Antibes). Dr. Yafit Bitton, a Marine Geomorphologist, is their representative in Israel acting on behalf of Mangusta.
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Federico Castelli, the Embassy's Chief of Staff warmly welcomed everyone present which was followed by the enthusiastic singing of Italy's national anthem, Fratelli d'Italia (Brothers of Italy) and Israel's Hatikva.
The Ambassador of Italy address was eloquent. The Italian Republic turns 80, what President Mattarella described as a watershed moment in our national history. Under the Republic, Italy has thrived becoming a robust democracy, a prosperous economy, the second manufacturing member of the E.U.and the fifth worldwide, a member of NATO, the G7 and the G20. In 1957 with the Treaty of Rome, Italy together with France, Germany and Benelux founded the European Union. Eighty years ago, today, women went to the polls for the first time and with that vote proudly took their place in Italy's democratic life. In 1948, that vote paved the way for the adoption of the Italian constitution which is founded on democracy, human dignity, freedom, social justice and the rule of law. The Italian Republic and the State of Israel are two young nations, almost equal in age and heirs to ancient civilizations, grounded in common Judeo - Christian roots. Due to this bond Italy has underdstood the historical vocation of the State of Israel to be the national home of the Jewish people where they could live and prosper in safety after centuries of persecutions culminating in the Holocaust. Since its establishment, Israel has lived under the constant threat posed by its enemies. Hamas' genocidal massacare on the 7th of October and the wars with Iran and Hezbollah testify that today after 78 years, Isael continues to face threats to its very existence. Italy has always and unequivocally stood by Israel and its security needs. Nonetheless, we cannot disregard that war, violence and death have shaken consequences causing immeasurable sorrow and led to question the validity of certain ethical convictions. Cardinal Pizzaballa recently remarked, that we must resist falling into the spiral of hatred normalizing brutality, it poisons the public debate, legitimizes cruelty and dehumaizes society. Extremetism is never the proper answer to extreme violence. Values that define our democracies, founded, as expressed in 1689, by the philosopher John Locke on liberalism and the rule of law not the rule by law. The Italian Republic will never tolerate antisemitsm and any form of hatred, discrimination and violence against Jewish communities, never again. The Ambassdor expressed the aforemmentioned statement in Italian. I would like to conclude with a message of hope. Last year on this occassion I called for the immediate release of all the hostages and today the hostages are back, our prayers were not in vain. Thank you for your presnce here tonight, thanks to our sponsors as without their support we could not have organized today's reception. My gratitude to all my staff under the guidance of First Secretary, Federico Castelli for organizing such an extraordinary event.
A visual message, on screen was shown where Israel's 11th President, Issac Herzog expressed his blessings and congratulations, stating that today two democracies with close ties, celebrate Italy's 80th anniversary as a Republic. Recalling his previous visits to Rome and his interaction with Rome's historic Jewish community dating back to 2 200 years, 200 years before Jesus Christ. The drastic rise of antisemitism in Italy is worrying. Italy's President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Georgia Meloni are good friends of mine and I believe that Italy and Israel can work concomitantly together towards creating greater tolerance and in combating the anti semitic sentiment that has deeply penetrated Italy.
The State of Israel was represented by Deputy Foreign Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Sharren Haskel The connection between Israel and Italy is more than diplomatic, it is a profound alliance rooted in shared history, ancient culture and a deep mutual affection between our peoples. We remember with gratitude the heroic volunteers of the Jewish brigade who fought alongside Italian partisans to liberate Italy from Nazi - Fascist rule. In January 1949, a newborn Italy became one of the first nations to recognize the fledgling State of Israel. Our nations have built a thriving partnership across commerce, science and culture. The Israeli public holds a deep and genuine love for Italy - its rich history, its beautiful language and its warm people. The deep bond is anchored in 77 years of formal diplomacy and a robust government to government framework from our doctors working hand in hand during the Covid pandemic to Italian firefighting aircraft helping us combat the devastating fires in the Jerusalem hills last year. Following the atrocities of the 7th of October, Italy stood by Israel. As we navigate these challenging times, we look to Italy to continue standing firmly with us. Israel is fighting a war forced on us by threats of global terror that seek to tear down the liberal values and democratic ideals that form the bedrock of Israeli and Italian society. We must look ahead and work tirelessly to restore our exceptional bilateral relations to their full historic strength across political, economic and cultural spheres, particularly in the vital areas of security and technological innovation. We have watched with great concern a rising tide of anti - Israel incidents that threaten to chip away at the close bond between our societies. More alarming is the global surge in antisemitism, an ancient hatred that has not spared Italy or its historic Jewish communities. We appreciate Italy's ongoing efforts to combat this scourge. Thank you for hosting this beautiful evening and for your dedicated leadership in fighting in strengthening the bridge between Rome and Jerusalem. May our deep friendship continue to grow from strength to strength, anchored in truth, resilience and our shared democratic future.
A performance by the Israeli Opera's two sopranos, Primadonnas Yael Levita and Veronica Odintsov accompanied by pianist Rafael Skorka, sang an aria by Donizetti and another two arias by Puccini which included an aria from La Boheme.
After the performance, guests were invited to partake of a lavish and overwhelmingly large buffet which consisted of 5 stations Roast beef entrecote and mashed potatoes, roast brisket, chicken breast accompanied by baby potatoes, ravioli with a red wine and artichoke sauce, baked fish fillet accompanied by zucchini, beans and broccoli, spaghetti with Arrabiata sauce and a large table of antipasti including anchovies, salads, canopies filled with chopped liver and jam, baked pumpkin and melanzani. Desserts were sumptuous and scrumptious with a large choice of chocolate, coffee, pear and chocolate and raspberry mousse, malabiye, tiramisu, apricot pie, tapioca pudding, black forest cake and a seperate station serving creme ouzo, Japanese lime, strawberry coulis, sweet cake crumbs and mint sauce.
Ambassadors, Diplomats, members of the Italian Jewish community living in Israel, members of the business community, academics, representatives from various cultural organizations; Mr. Gil Haskell, Israel's Chief of State Protocol, Mr. Amit Zarouk, an advisor to the President of Israel, Ms.Keren Cohen - Gat, Foreign Affairs Advisor Deputy MFA; Dr. Cinzia Klein, Delegate of the Accademia Italiana della Cucina in Israel, Ms. Emanuela Di Capna from the Italian Trade Agency in Tel Aviv; Dr. Roberto Della Rocca, Israel - Italy Chamber of Commerce's Bishop Giancinto- Boulos Marcuzzo, the Latin Patriarchate Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Jerusalem, the Governor General of the Bank of Israel, Prof. Amir Yaron, Mr. Ehud Olmert, a former Prime Minister of Israel, Prof. Dafne Guetta,a Professor of Physics and Head of Ariel University's International Unit Department, Mr. Renato Eran and Mrs. Sharon Jarach, CEO of JYA & C Accounting Firm, Dr. Cinzia Klein, Ms. Sabrina G. Fadlun, Delegate and Vice Delegate of the Italian Academy of Cuisine in Israel; Ms. Emanuela Di Capna from the Italian Trade Agency in Tel Aviv, Mr. Carlo Gross, Italy's Honorary Consul for Haifa and the North of Israel, Prof. Emanuele Dalla Torre, Professor of Non - Equilibrium Many - Body Physics at Bar-Ilan University, Ms. Shira Martin, a Senior Bureaucrat in Israeli Tax Authority Indirect Taxes Diplomatic Unit's Collection and Enforcement Department, Mr.Nathan Allalouf, Allalouf Group President.( Shipping ), Mr. Emanuel Shapira Rabbanian, Dan Hotels LTD Director of Delegations, Mr. Yehuda Haviv, Israel Tax Authority's Indirect Taxes Sr. Director, Diplomatic Unit's Collection and Enforcement Department, Mr. Dotan Smith, the population and Immigration Authority's Head of the Assisted Voluntary Return Division, Mr.Claudio Coldebella, General Manager Maccabi Tel AvivBasketballClub , Mr. Nadav Tamir, the Peres Centre for Peace and Innovation's Head of International Relations, Mrs. Anat Sar, an Israeli fashion designer and proprietor of Kiki Dress to Dress, Mr. Ariel Goldstein, Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister of Israel ; Mr. Maor Ifrah, an Advisor to the Foreign Ministry's Director Generaland more...
A board acknowledging the evening's sponsors was displayed namely Intimissimi, Samelet, Sparke, ELNET (European Leadership Network), Stream Yachts, Ferrero, Illy, ERCO and Zanetti.
Upon departure guests were treated to a generous gift package, they had a choice of two packages i.e. a bag of chocolates sponsored by Ferrero which included Tic Tac, Raffaello, Ferrero Rocher, Nutella and Kinder or a bag containing Illy Coffee.
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On Thursday afternoon, the 28th of May 2026, on the occasion of Paraguay's 215th anniversary of independence, the Ambassador of the Republic of Paraguay to Israel, H.E. Mr Alejandro and Mrs. Tali Cymerman hosted a reception in the foyer of the Embassy's Brosh Tower in Har Hotzvim, Jerusalem.
Upon entering the lobby, an impressive exhibition of ballpoint drawings by two Paraguayan artists, Juan Crespo and Richart Peralta welcomed the guests. Each work is born from direct observation portraying the region's fauna and flora namely armadillos, giant anteaters, turtles and deer. The Nivade, the name denoting human beings are one of the largest indigenous peoples of Para - guayan Chaco, having a profound bond with their natural environment. The forest, animals and plants are the axis of their identity and spirituality which is reflected in their art.
David Karlsberg dressed in a colourful ethnic Paraguayan shirt entertained guests with his rendition on the Paraguayan harp.
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Anthony Raphael Escoboza, CEO and founder of Escomedia group based in Herzliya and Miami, welcomed all guests and mentioned the men and women who fought and died valiantly for Paraguay's hard earned independence. He stated that the two nations are committed to strengthening friendship and common interests.
The singing of Paraguay and Israel's national anthems followed.
The Ambassador of Paraguay, H.E. Mr. Alejandro Rubin Cymerman address began by him highlighting the 215th anniversary of Paraguay's national independence and underscoring the particularly close relationship between Paraguay and Israel. The Ambassador mentioned that Paraguay's independence began on the night of the 14th of May 1811 and was consolidated in the early hours of the 15th of May. This was a decision marking a people's freedom thus taking their destiny into their own hands with the intention to live in dignity as a sovereign nation. Coincidentally, Israel's independence from Britain's mandate in 1948, also came into existence on the same date at midnight, between the 14th and the15th of May. This year, Paraguayan independence coincided with "Jerusalem Day". Paraguay is in Jerusalem, not only because it believes in Israel, but because it honours its word, understanding that true friendship is demonstrated through action alone. The Ambassador noted that over the past year, the relationship between Paraguay and Israel has strengthened significantly with high level visits, ongoing political dialogue, new agreements, concrete cooperation and an increasing bilateral agenda. He expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the decision to name a space in Jerusalem after the Republic of Paraguay, not by simply bestowing a name but leaving a mark of friendship in a city with a long history and memory. He stated that today Paraguay is a country with political and economic stability, abundant energy and productive capacity providing attractive conditions for investment. Israel is beginning to discover Paraguay as a serious,stable and competitive platform for growth. He highlighted the strong growth of Paraguayan beef present in Israel's market recalling that Paraguay exported an average of $110 million worth of beef annually, this figure doubled in 2025. If the current trend continues, exports could exceed $300 million this year. He thanked Israeli importers, distributors, vendors and business people who have placed their trust in his country and helped to improve its products in the Israeli market place. Paraguay is not only about beef, sectors such as food, energy, water, applied technology, logistics, manufacturing, services and investment are available for investors as Paraguay is an open and stable country strategically located in the heart of South America. The Ambassador concluded his address with a message of commitment to freedom and friendship between Paraguay and Israel to be built on a common future based on facts, trust and cooperation.
The State of Israel was represented by Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gidon Sa'ar who spoke without notes. Guests had the feeling that he was conversing with each one individually. He started by mentioning two members of Israel's Knesset, Mr. Evgeny Sofa, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset and Mr. Boaz Toporovsky, who resigned yesterday, formerly serving as the coalition whip in the incumbent government. The Minister said that Paraguay's decision to move its Embassy to Jerusalem made it easy for him. Last year I visited Paraguay and encouraged investors to think about investing in Paraguay due to its stability which is reflected through its friendship with Israel. Last week I visited the Czech Republic where its stability is reflected through its friendship with Israel. On Saturday night I depart for Fiji, also a stable country reflected in its relationship with Israel. Paraguay was the 6th Embassy to open in Jerusalem and Fiji, being the 7th country. Next month, Somaliland will be the 8th county to open an Embassy in Jerusalem and is important as it is a Musim nation. On the 2nd of December 2025, joy was reflected in Hargeisa, Somaliland's capital, when Israel and Somaliland signed a joint declaration of mutual recognition. It is an important move as it reflects a positive change in a challenging and turbulent time. Despite all odds, Israel continues to open Embassies and representative offices and visa versa. Regarding the forthcoming World Cup Soccer Games opening on the 11th of June 2026, I will continue to support Argentina (my father was born in Argentina) and wish Paraguay great success in their endeavours. Soon Israel and Paraguay will sign a cyber agreement and our intention is not only to fortify relations between governments but also between peoples.
A toast in Paraguay and Israel's honour followed enjoyed by the Ambassador and the Foreign Minister.
A sumptuous, healthy and colorful buffet consisting of fresh garden salads, a selection of artisanal bread, stuffed vine leaves, bourekas with various fillings, Tuniasian fish canopies and a cheese platter as well as a selection of white and red wine was served.
Present among the Meso and South American Ambassadors, Diplomats, State Officials, Businessman, were Mr. Adir Schwarz, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, Ms. Ruth Amit - Fogel, Paraguay's Consul Honoraria in Israel , Ms. Monica Mercedes Sartorio Roche, Paraguay's Honorary Consul in Israel, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director for the Israel - Latin Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Fine Akosita Ditoka, Head of Diplomacy, Strategic Affairs and Protocol of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, Mr. Maor Ifrah, Advisor to the Director General of the Israel's Foreign Ministry, Ms. Annika Briegert, Executive Assistant to the President of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, Dr. Mike Evans, Founder of the Friends of Zion Heritage Centre, Mr. Daniel Voiczek, CEO of the Friends of Zion Museum in Jerusalem, Mr. Itai Bartov, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's Chief of Staff for Foreign Policy, Mr. Yinam Cohen, the Foreign Ministry Director of Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Amik Ofek, the Foreign Ministry's Deputy Director General and Head of the Department for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Zeev Harel, a former Israeli Ambassador to Paraguay, Mr. Gabriel Berenstein, Elbit Systems Senior Director of Regional Marketing and Business Development, Mr. Jose Aronson, Director of Marketing and Business Development for Israel Aerospace Industries ELTA Group and Mr. Tony Raichler, Head of the Knesset's International Affairs Department for Latin America.
Diplomacy.co.il and www.diariojudio.com congratulates the Ambassador of Paraguay to the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Alejandro and Mrs. Rubin Cymerman , the Embassy staff and the people of Paraguay , on Paraguay's 215th anniversary of national independence and expresses its appreciation for a memorable afternoon of joy and conviviality.
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The Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway's Constitution Day Reception - 18 May 2026
On Monday evening, 18 May 2026, H.E. Mr. Per Egil Selvaag, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the State of Israel hosted a small and elegant reception at his residence in Herzliya Pituach, in honour of Norwegian Constitution Day.
Norway's Constitution Day is the country's official National Day celebrating the second oldest constitution still in use, which was signed in 1814, trailing the United States. The day's emphasis is manifested in the principles of democracy, community and children, where the main events are massive parades where school children march through local communities alongside marching bands.
Norwegian Flags of all shapes and sizes as well as flowers representing Norway's national colours were ubiquitously displayed both in the residence and in the garden.
In the entrance hall, adjacent to a beautiful flower arrangement and photograph of King Harald V and Queen Sonja, was a framed letter from His Majesty, expressing his blessing for Constitution Day.
In the garden, behind the dais on which the official ceremony took place, was a large screen displaying a video of Norway's Royal family and Constitution Day parades.
The official ceremony took place in the garden and Mr. Thomas Rem Berdal, the Embassy's Deputy Head of Mission, was Master of Ceremonies.
A beautiful rendition of Norway's and Israel's anthem by Nowegian Israeli singer, Silje Rubin accompanied by Or Shushan on guitar was performed.
Norway's Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Per Egil Selvaag spoke eloquently and succinctly welcoming everyone including notable guests which included former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Prof. Yossi Beilin, a former Minister in the Prime Minister's Office as well as of Economics, Justice and Religious Affairs, Prof. Amir Yaron, Governor of the Bank of Israel and Rabbi Michael Melchior, Norway's Chief Rabbi and a former Minister of Social and Diaspora Affairs. He read a letter from King Herald V which was displayed in the entrance hall of the Ambassador's residence. Thanks and praise was expressed for the release of the hostages held in captivity by Hamas. Norway is active regarding humanitarian assitance to the Palestinian population. Norway's foreign policy is anchored in NATO, a commitment to international law, European intergration, an Arctic policy and peace and diplomacy development. We condemn terror and have been actively working within the framework of the United Nations. Since 1949 we continue to work for a situation where a Jewish state can coexist with a Palestinian state. I spent my formative years growing up both in Norway and Israel. Israel is presently challenged internationally for extreme settler violence which is not receeding but to the contrary. Norway also perpetually looks how its relations can expand as we focus in areas such as climate control and science and technology. Regarding our participation in the fight against antisemitism, we actively particiapte in the IHRA (International Holocaust Rememberance Alliance). In May 2025 our Foreign Minister, Mr. Espen Barth Eide visited Jerusalem and attended the IHRA conference. According to the ADL's global 100 index, statistics reveal that Norway has globally the 2nd lowest rate of antisemitic beliefs among aduts. In May 1814 Noway's constitution was drafted, making it the second oldest constitution after the U.S.A. It embodies three principles namely, that of sovereignity of the people, the seperation of powers and the protection of fundamental human rights per se. Israel does not have a Constitution but instead a Declaration of Independence that emphasizes freedom, justice and peace, social equality for all its inhabitants are stipulated and the safeguarding of all holy places, irrespect of belief. In conclusion, my belief is that Israel will embody the principles of the Declaration of Principles and that it will not be become a fairytale as a song will now be performed entitled "Fairyland" by Selje Rubin and Or Shushan, which won Norway the Eurovision contest in 2009.
After the speech, a song entitled "Fairyland", which was won by Norway's Alexander Rybak in the 2009 Eurovision Contest.
An impressive buffet, which was a feast for the eyes, was presented with elan and included Norwegian meatballs and beans, phyllo pastry filled savories and a dish of carrots. A large table in the centre of the room filled to the brim included many salads, crudites, Norwegian canopies, a selection of smoked and cured fish including Norwegian salmon and a selection of cheese. There were two dessert stations, inside was a station where small Pavlova treats, a festive Norwegian tier cake decorated with miniature flags and fresh cherries were served and in the garden another station were Brunost, the iconic Norwegian cheese, traditional Norwegian pancakes accompanied with whipped cream, sliced strawberries and berries and berry jam was available. A selection of select wines, tastefully chosen and soft drinks were also available.
Among the guests present were many European Ambassadors, Diplomats, a few Military Attaches, many Norwegian expatriates and nationals living in Israel, Mr. and Mrs. Petur Petersen, Head of Representation of the Faroe Islands in Tel Aviv (The Faroe Islands is a self governing archipelago of 18 islands which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark), Mr. Yehuda Haviv, a Senior Director of the Israel Tax Authority Diplomatic Unit of Collection and Enforcement Department - Indirect Taxes, Ms. Shira Martin, a Senior Bureaucrat of the Israel Tax Authority's Diplomatic Unit of Collection and Enforcement Department - Indirect Taxes, Mr. Lior Amihai, Director of Peace Now, Dr. Khaled and Mrs Rim Khalifa, Chairman of the Arab Council of Foreign Relations, Mr. Wadie Abunassar, Director of a think tank, the International Centre for Consultations, Ms. Alexandra Kara, from the Cybercrime Department of the State Attorney's Office of the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Brian Reeves, Director of Strategic Relations Alliance for Middle East Peace, Mr. Eoin Barry, Humanitarian Advisor of the International Red Cross and Mr. Laurence Weinbaum, Director General of the Israel Council of Foreign Relations and Chief Editor of the Israel Journal of Foreign Affairs.
. www.diplomacy.co.il conveys its appreciation, good wishes and sincere thanks to the Ambassador of Norway, H.E. Per. Egil Selvaag and the Embassy staff for their gracious hospitality and for a memorable evening.
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On the occasion of the Argentine Republic's "May Revolution Day", the Ambassador of the Argentine Republic to the State of Israel, H.E. Rabbi Axel Shimon Wahnish, hosted a reception at the National Library of Israel., Jerusalem.
The 25th of May in Argentina is often called "Dia de la Patria" (Homeland Day), being the most important holiday commemorating the May Revolution of 1810 that established the country's first independent government.
Guests gathered in the National Library's impressive and modernist foyer where a circular glass panel overlooks the reading rooms below. Red wine from Mendoza, Argentina's premier wine region, nestled in the eastern foothills of the Andes and imported Alfajores, an iconic Argentinian cookie ( Alfajores ) filled with caramel sauce ( Dulce de Leche ), were plentiful.
The official ceremony took place in the National Library's auditorium, the national anthems of Argentina and Israel were sung accompanied by a trio of musicians from the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
Representing the State of Israel, H.E. Mr. Amichai Chikli, Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, started his address by stating that if someone had mentioned Argentina to him years ago, he would have thought of a country struggling with economic hardship, political instability and corruption under a shadow of terror and antisemitism. Today Argentina represents the opposite, under the leadership of President Javaier Milei, epitomizing liberty, moral clarity and economic success. Argentina stands proudly as Israel's closest and most trusted ally and friend in South America, rooted in democracy, freedom and in the unwavering belief that free societies must stand united against evil and terror. Two years ago I had the honour of visiting Argentina and participating in the commemoration marking 30 years since the devastating terror attack by Iran against the AMIA building, killing 85 people. We value Argentina's pursuit of justice for the victims against the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires in 1992 and the AMIA community centre in 1994. We are grateful for President Milei's announcement recognizing Jerusalem as the eternal capital of the State of Israel and for his commitment to relocate the Argentine Embassy to Jerusalem. Argentina's Ambassador Axiel's role is not merely an official and political appointment, but his connection to Israel and Judaism is deeply ideological, spiritual and personal. President Milei's state visit last month marked a significant milestone in the partnership between our nations. The launch of forthcoming direct flights between Tel Aviv and Buenos Aires is another important step in bringing our societies closer. Argentina's presidency of the IHRA, the first ever held by a Latin American country, designates its leadership in the fight combating antisemitism.
The musical ensemble played "Jerusalem of Gold" which was enthusiastically received by the audience followed by a Bach suite, Mozart's Divertimento and Manuel de Falla's Danza del Fuego.
Lord Mayor of Jerusalem. Mr. Moshe Lion stated that Argentina's support and friendship was highlighted last month by President Milei when he lit a torch at Israel's Independence Day celebration in Jerusalem. Jerusalem has a square called Argentina square and soon an Embassy will be opened. May everyone experience peace, G-d bless both the people of Argentina and Israel.
The Ambassador of the Argentine Republic to the State of Israel, Rabbi Axel Shimon Wahnish address was in Spanish, warmly welcoming everyone to the celebration of Argentina's national day, commemorating the birth of a nation founded on the ideals of liberty and the aspiration to build a free and sovereign country. Under the leadership of President Milei, Argentina firmly stands on the right side of history defending the ideals of freedom, democracy and life - principles that deeply unite us with the State of Israel and continue to strengthen the bonds between our peoples. May this evening of music and culture be a celebration of our heritage and a bridge that brings our peoples together. We are honoured by your presence and sincerely thank you for joining us on this special occasion.
A video recording featuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extending his congratulations and hailing President Milei as a "Champion of Truth" was screened.
A musical selection by the Israel Philharmonic.Orchestra'
Concluding the evening's event was a raffle entitling the winner two tickets on El Al's new non stop "maiden flight" to be inaugurated in November 2026, from Tel Aviv to Buenos Aires. The tickets were presented by El Al's Director International Affairs. Mr. Stanley Morais mentioned that the forthcoming connection is not merely a flight but reflects the deep friendship between our countries.
Present were Ambassadors, diplomats and military attaches specially from Central and South America, state officials, many Argentinian nationals and expatriates living in Israel, Mr. Oren Weinberg, CEO of the National Library of Israel, H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, H.E. Mr. Yinam Cohen, the Foreign Ministry's Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Amit Zaruk, an advisor from the State President's Office, Dr. Ana B. Heller, Astrophysicist and Nano-satellite expert ;Mr and Mrs. Leo Glaser, an Argentinian Israeli businessman, Mr. Tony Reichler, Head of the Knesset Internationals Relations Section, Mr. Roni Kaplan, the IDF's Spanish spokesperson, Mr. Jonathan Meta, a journalist for Kan Media (Spanish), Six Rescued Argentinian hostages held in captive by Hamas, Ms. Miri Berger, Executive Director of the Israel - Latin America Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Dotan Smith, Population and Immigration Authority's Head of the Assisted Voluntary Return Division, Mr. Yehuda Haviv, Israel Tax Authority's Senior Director of the Diplomatic Unit's Collection and Enforcement Department, Ms. Shira Martin, a Senior Bureaucrat in the Israel Tax Authority Diplomatic Unit's Collection and Enforcement Department and last but not least Sister (Maria) Ana Dibora Carrizo from the Servants of the Lord Mission in Bethlehem as well as Sisters Pia, Roncesvalles, Resurreccion and Praedilecta who work tirelessly and serve in an Institute for handicapped children in Bethlehem.
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Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Somaliland to Israel, H.E. Mohamed Hagi
President Isaac Herzog Receives Diplomatic Credentials of New Ambassadors, Including First-Ever Ambassador of Somaliland
Today, May 18, 2026, President Isaac Herzog received the diplomatic credentials of the first-ever Ambassador of Somaliland to Israel, Mohamed Hagi, as well as the new Ambassadors of the Republic of Korea, Park Inho; the Holy See, Apostolic Nuncio Monsignor Giorgio Lingua; Australia, Neil Hawkins; and Vietnam, Nguyen Ky Son, in formal ceremonies at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
President Isaac Herzog to Ambassador Hagi of Somaliland:
“It’s a great honor to receive the first ambassador of the Republic of Somaliland in Israel as we further pursue our warm and good relations with the nations of Africa. I especially want to welcome you after I met your President in Davos, where we had a wonderful meeting.
“The incredible joy of the people of Somaliland shown upon Israel’s recognition of your nation warmed our hearts. I think this is a unique opportunity to develop dialogue with nations of Muslim countries who are so important in the region. You are facing many challenges, and we are here to assist and help with all the important fields of life, from food security, to energy, to science in order to enjoy prosperity together. So welcome, shalom to you, and hopefully we will go from strength to strength together.”
Ambassador Hagi of Somaliland:
“It’s an honor to be here today. We have built a great relationship, which is a strategic one that will pave the way forward on many things in all domains, whether that is development, political cooperation, security cooperation, and, of course, the people-to-people relationship.
“The people of Somaliland very much appreciate that Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland in 1960, and again, after 35 years of independence and sovereignty, Israel again became the first country that recognized Somaliland. Our relationship is unique because it's not just about two governments, it's about the people of Israel and the people of Somaliland. In Somaliland, you can see lots of Israeli flags and people waving them in the streets and in rural areas as well.”
Photo: President Herzog with the Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See, Monsignor Giorgio Lingua
Upon receiving the diplomatic credentials of the Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See, Monsignor Giorgio Lingua, President Herzog expressed the importance of open, frank and friendly interfaith dialogue between Judaism and Christianity. President Herzog stressed the importance of protecting freedom of religion and scared sites in the Holy Land, and unequivocally condemned all acts of violence and disrespect against symbols of Christianity. President Herzog also underlined the importance of working together with the Pope and the Holy See in the global fight against antisemitism.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Australia to Israel, H.E. Ambassador Neil Hawkins
During his meeting with the new Ambassador of Australia, President Herzog and Ambassador Neil Hawkins discussed the deep historical ties between Israel and Australia, the President’s recent visit to Australia, and the importance of the ongoing fight against antisemitism.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of South Korea to Israel, H.E.Park Inho
Welcoming the new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Israel, Park Inho, President Herzog expressed his intention to upgrade bilateral relations between Israel and the Republic of Korea in technology, trade, security, culture, and tourism.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Vietnam to Israel, H.E.Nguyen Ky Son
Upon receiving the diplomatic credentials of the Ambassador of Vietnam to Israel, Nguyen Ky Son, President Herzog highlighted the opportunities to further strengthen the growing trade between our two countries and our ties in a range of other fields.
Youtube On May 18, 2026, President Isaac Herzog received the diplomatic credentials of the first-ever Ambassador of Somaliland to Israel, Mohamed Hagi, at a formal ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem.
https://youtu.be/5OAWYBr_0bs?si=AllhTmPUsY3EcvcR
Video: Gregory Bado / GPO Sound: Gidon Arnold / GPO
Photo credits: Kobi Gideon (GPO)
