Diplomatic Events

A meeting of Peace, Independence, and Commemoration: 30 Year Celebration Kazakhstan-Israel Ties.

Thirty years passed so fast, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of the independence of Kazakhstan, and with it the Republic’s 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the state of Israel. The Embassy of Kazakhstan in Israel held a commemorative celebration in Rishon Lezion to mark the occasion.

In addition to marking these important anniversaries, the event also commemorated Kazakhstan providing shelter to thousands of Jews during World War II. This included a symbolic tree planting in a tribute of honor, and uncovering of the memorial plaque in the Memorial Park Hasidei Umot Ha’Olam blvd, Rishon LeZion, Israel.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, H.E. Satybaldy Burshkov, opened the event with his memorable speech, telling guests that "Over the past 30 years, we have created a constructive, stable model of mutually beneficial interaction between our countries." 

The Ambassador underlined that Jewish people were essential to Kazakhstani society. Further, their contribution to Kazakhstan has helped create a strong bridge of friendship between Israel and Kazakhstan.

The Ambassador expanded on the profound significance of the tree planting: 

"Today, we planted these trees, as "young" as my country and as diplomatic relations between our countries, but with the strong will to grow and strengthen."

Mr. Panigar Baibekov, the Consul, told Diplomacy that this is a massive event in importance between the countries; the ceremony shows the excellent relationship between the countries. Also, there is extensive tourism between the countries!

Mr. Maxim Babitski, Deputy Mayor of Rishon Lezion, spoke at the ceremony, announcing that:

"In the near future, Rishon LeZion will start a Sister Cities cooperation, thus bringing two cities together, and God willing, we will be able to learn and teach each other our wonderful heritage."

The Deputy Mayor said that he had the honor of paying contributions to the Kazakh people and the government that gave refuge to over 8,200 Jews from August 1941 to January 1942.

In his words, he marks that this live-saving gesture will be remembered.

The new Ambassador of Israel in Kazakhstan, Edwin Yabo Glusman, for two weeks now, has received government approval to be Kazakhstan's designated Ambassador.

The Ambassador stated that from his brief acquaintance with the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Israel, he understands that this is a highly Israel-friendly nation with thirty years of relations and: "...A very long future of cooperation and development for the two nationalities."

The ceremony itself preserved a strong impression that was sensed through the air by all reputable attendees. Among the distinguished guests were: Mr. David Luxemburg, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Israel; Mr. Gary Koren, Deputy director-general of the Ministry of foreign affairs of Israel; Ms. Olga Gelfand, chairman, member of Coordinating Council of the Compatriots of Russia in Israel. Annette Ben-Shahar, Director of Foreign Relations, Municipality of Rishon Lezion, hosted the ceremony professionally and courteously with her secretary Tali Haziza.

Diplomacy.co.il congratulations the embassy of Kazakhstan on this important occasion, and offers best wishes for future decades of Israel-Kazakhstan relations.