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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.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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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)
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President Herzog: “My dream is to get into a car and drive straight to Beirut, to visit that beautiful city, to befriend the good people of Lebanon”
On April 22, 2026, President Isaac Herzog hosted a reception for ambassadors, diplomats, military attachés, and faith leaders in honor of Israel’s 78th Independence Day at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. The event was attended by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gideon Sa’ar, and ambassadors from around the world. In a moving moment, former hostage Alon Ohel and his brother Ronen performed on stage during the ceremony.
President Isaac Herzog:
“We are delighted to welcome you to the President’s Residence to celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut, 78 years of Israel’s independence.
“These are historic times we are living in. Times of tectonic shifts in the Middle East that I pray will usher in a hopeful future. This is a time in which the choices made by leaders and nations, even at this very moment, can shape our region for generations to come.
“I take this opportunity to thank President Donald J. Trump and the United States of America for the unique partnership in confronting the empire of evil from Iran and pursuing a historic change, and I welcome the representatives of the American Armed Forces here this morning.
“The war against Iran and its many proxies is not a war of choice. There comes a time in which a country must fight for itself, fight to defend its people, and ensure its future. Iran aims to obliterate Israel, to dominate the Middle East, and to overthrow the values nurtured by the entire free world, so this is a battle for the future of all of our children.
“When Israel's First President, Dr. Chaim Weizmann, first hosted this reception in 1949, then in Tel Aviv, naturally there was not a single diplomatic representative of an Arab or Muslim nation. But here today, we wholeheartedly welcome diplomats from Arab and Muslim countries from all across who represent the hope for peace and the fraternity to which we aspire.
“I pray we will see more and more countries joining the Abraham Accords, just as we have here representatives from the UAE and Bahrain, and more nations from our region normalizing relations with us. Already we are seeing that the partnerships we have forged to combat the axis of terror and extremism are generating opportunities for a new alliance to take shape in our region: an alliance of responsibility, pragmatism, and hope.
“Israel is eager to work with all of you to help shape a Middle East in which all of our sons and daughters can inherit opportunity instead of fear. That they inherit the promises of tomorrow, and not the conflicts of yesterday. I recently said to Israeli school kids that my dream is to get into a car and drive straight to Beirut, to visit that beautiful city, to befriend the good people of Lebanon, those who share a prayer with us for a better future. I salute the teams who will hopefully gather tomorrow in Washington, D.C., and wish them great success in pursuing peace between Israel and Lebanon. But in order to reach that point, Israel must ensure the safety of its borders.
“I pray that, Please God, when we all gather again next year, may we speak of the war only in the past tense, and enjoy the blessings of peace, in Israel, with our neighbors, near and far and all around the world! Happy Independence Day!”
Mrs.Michal Herzog, Israeli First Lady performed Hatikvah, the National Israeli anthem in sign language
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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The Delegation of the European Union's to the State of Israel Europe Day Reception - 11 May 2026
In honour of Europe Day, celebrated on the 9th of May, H.E. Mr. Michael Anthony and Mrs. Mann, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to the State of Israel, hosted an elegant reception at his residence.
The European Union (E.U.) was established post World War 11 to foster economic cooperation and prevent future conflict, primarily initiated by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman and Jean Monnet.
The Master of Ceremonies warmly welcomed everyone present, stating that the evening's celebration is in honour of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the European Union which inaugurated a period of peace and prosperity in Europe. This was the first time as Ambassador in Israel, that H.E. Mr. Mann hosted a Europe Day reception.
The Anthem of Israel and of Europe was played. Europe's anthem is a piece of instrumental music adapted from the prelude of the final movement of Beethoven's 9th symphony composed in 1823, originally set to words adapted from Friedrich Schiller's 1785 poem, "Ode to Joy".
The Ambassador's address commenced by stating that it is a great pleasure to welcome everyone and that he was truly honoured. On 9 May 1950, Robert Schuman, France's Foreign Minister, declared a united Europe. Today the European Union includes 27 nations, being an inspiration not only in Europe but beyond. On Europe Day we celebrate not only what we do but also to promote a fairer world.
Bilateral relations between the European Union and Israel can be traced back to 1957 when Shimon Peres, Director General of Israel's Foreign Ministry had meetings with Jean Monnet, a major proponent of European integration. The European Union and Israel collaboration includes the Erasmus+ which is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport. The E..The U. E. is Israel's largest trading partner.
The European Union condemns Hamas's pogrom and has designated Hamas as a terrorist group. We also believe that Iran should not be given nuclear status. During the war I visited underground hospitals and blood banks where I donated blood. My sympathies to the 21 Israelis killed in the recent war and also to all people who were injured. During this period of rising antisemitism, we intensify strategies within the E.U. and work with Israel in order to combat rising antisemitsm. We also oppose the death penalty and settler violence and believe in a two state solution. We support the Palestinian National Authority and Palestinian civil society organizations.
Today, the inclusion of countries within the European Union that once caused mutual destruction now collaborate concomitantly. We believe that even in Israel, despite all odds , reconciliation is possible. Clearly, this does not make us popular as sadly we hear claims that the E.U. is anti Israel. On the 14th of June 2022 upon receiving an honorary doctorate at Ben Gurion University in Beer Sheva, the E.U. 's President, Dr. Ursula von der Leyen, stated that Israel and the European Union are bound to be friends.
Moet & Chandon champagne and a selection of wine as well as nonalcoholic beverages were served. A sumptuous buffet consisting of a wide array of canopies and a selection of cheese, savory biscuits and fresh fruit were elegantly presented.
Present among the many Ambassadors not only from the European block but also from Asia, Latin America and Africa were a few military attaches, diplomats, academics, representatives from civil society organizations and high ranking state bureaucrats. Notable guests included H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol, Prof. Yossi Beilin a former Minister in the Prime Minister's Office as well as of Economics, Justice and Religious Affairs, Mr. Dan Kaidar, Head of International Relations for the Knesset, Dr. Khaled and Mrs. Rim Khalifa, Chairman of the Arab Council of Foreign Relations, Mr. Laurence Weinbaum, Director General of the Israel Council of Foreign Relations and Chief Editor of the Israel Journal of Foreign Affairs and last but certainly not least Lt. Col (Res) Avital Leibovich, Director of the American Jewish Committee (A.J.C.) in Jerusalem.
Congratulations to the Delegation of the E..U. to Israel on Europe's Day's 75th anniversary. www.diplomacy.co.il/ and /diariojudio.com/ extend their deepest gratitude to H..E. Mr. Michael Anthony Mann and Mrs. Mann and Embassy Staff for their gracious hospitality and for a memorable evening.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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Today, Monday, 20 April 2026 / 3 Iyar 5786 the President Isaac Herzog Awards the “Presidential Medal of Honor” to President Javier Milei of Argentina
President Herzog: “As President of Argentina, you are leading a bold policy, enhancing the collaboration between our countries to the benefit of both of our nations”
President Milei: “Argentina and Israel each represent, in their own way, the same cause: that of keeping alive the flame of freedom in an uncertain world”
On Monday, April 20, 2026, President Isaac Herzog presented the “Presidential Medal of Honor”, the highest civilian decoration of the State of Israel, to President Javier Milei of Argentina in a ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.
The medal was awarded in recognition of President Milei’s consistent and outspoken commitment to the State of Israel, his unwavering support for Israel on the international stage, his solidarity with the families of the hostages, and his deep personal connection to the Jewish people and its heritage.
Also in attendance at the ceremony were the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, Gideon Sa’ar, the Minister the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of the Argentine Republic, Pablo Quirno, and the Minister of Justice of the Argentine Republic, Juan Bautista Mahiques.
Following the ceremony, the leaders held a bilateral meeting. During their meeting, President Herzog condemned the grave incident in which damage was caused to Christian religious symbols in southern Lebanon and is currently under investigation by the IDF.
Upon presenting the “Presidential Medal of Honor” to President Milei, President Isaac Herzog said:
“Javier, my friend, it is a true honor and pleasure for Michal and me to welcome you here at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. We gather at a sacred time and a sacred city. The city is our eternal capital. The time is the eve of Israel’s Memorial Day, in which Israel comes to a standstill in solidarity and mourning of those who gave their lives for our homeland.
“Tomorrow evening, Israelis will dry their tears and raise their Israeli flag to celebrate the independence of the State of Israel. As we approach this moment, I feel privileged to present a great friend of Israel and a great friend of mine, Dr. Javier Milei, with the highest civilian award an Israeli President can bestow: The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor.
“In February of 2024, a few months after the October 7th horrific massacre, you conducted your first visit to Israel as President of Argentina. Here, the shock, horror, and pain of that dark day were still raw and pulsing. On the grounds of Kibbutz Nir Oz, with the signs of devastation and horror all around us, trails of blood still staining the earth, remains of the fire that scorched the land, you and I stood together, shoulder to shoulder, with Michal and your dear sister, looked the families of the kibbutz in the eyes, and vowed: This kibbutz shall blossom again.
“We recalled there, in those darkest moments, what is always true: The Jewish people—the Israeli people—will always rebuild. And we shared another truth: The Jewish people are not alone. The State of Israel is not alone. We have allies, and we have great friends. You, Javier, in your actions and words, demonstrated your friendship and declared your message of showing up in body, spirit, and heart.
“As President of Argentina, you are leading a bold policy, enhancing the collaboration between our countries to the benefit of both of our nations. Much of your leadership points straight to the heart of tikkun olam—our highest ambition, to repair a fractured world. Together, we are harnessing the best of our nations to bring tools of innovation, science, and our boundless human creativity in service of greater health, prosperity, and well-being for people everywhere. And it shows.
“On behalf of the State of Israel, the people of Israel, and the entire history that stands behind us, I hereby bestow upon you the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor. Muchas gracias, mi querido amigo Javier. ¡Viva Israel! Viva Argentina!”
Upon receiving the “Presidential Medal of Honor”, President Milei said:
“I wish first to thank President Herzog for this medal that has been awarded to me. I am duly honored to receive it, as yet another warm gesture from the people of Israel who welcome me on every visit, with their characteristic affection.
“In addition to being honored by this distinction, I also welcome the increasingly closer ties between our peoples. I welcome the strengthening of this friendship, which has been one of the pillars of our government's foreign policy, as part of a return to the Judeo-Christian values that once made us great. Argentina once strayed from that path, renouncing its foundational values in search of alternatives that would justify the power structures of successive governments.
“Today, thanks to the Argentine people having once again chosen the ideas of freedom, we have returned to the path of the West, of Judeo-Christian values, and of everything that made us great as a civilization. And among all the things we have recovered, few are as valuable as the close bond of friendship between our nations. A fraternity that has always existed on a people-to-people basis, which no government has been able to break, and which today stands stronger than ever.
“Argentina and Israel each represent, in their own way, the same cause: that of keeping alive the flame of freedom in an uncertain world, where darkness today looms even over those peoples who once knew freedom. Freedom, which is nothing other than preserving the flame of a life that is free and worthy of being lived. Because, as Moses said to the people of Israel: ‘Between life and death, between blessing and curse, choose life.’
“That is why we want the friendship between Argentina and Israel to endure over time. First, because of what it represents for two peoples who share values, a legacy, and a vision for the future. But, above all, as a symbol of the fact that, even in the darkest times, good ultimately prevails, as long as we remain united.
May God bless Israel. May God bless Argentina. May the forces of heaven be with us. Thank you very much to all of you.”
Video of the Presidential Medal of Honor Ceremony for President Milei of Argentina:
https://mab.to/t/pFIgIiOkC83/
Video credit: Roi Avraham (GPO) / Sound credit: Nir Sharf (GPO)
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo / Diplomacy Israel / Silvia G.Golan & Instagram SilviaGolan
