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President Herzog to new U.S. Ambassador Huckabee: “We share our heartbreak and our absolute resolve to see every last hostage freed from the Hamas dungeons and returned to their loved ones. Immediately. Every last one. I thank you for this allegiance of heart, and, no less, for your commitment to action. Nothing is more urgent.”
U.S. Ambassador Huckabee: “We care deeply, Mr. President, about the threats that face Israel, because those are also the threats that face our country. I never want Americans to think that we Americans are not greatly benefited by our partnership with our ally Israel. We benefit dramatically in the sharing of intelligence, the sharing of technology, and the sharing of agricultural innovation, in which Israel has led the world.”
New U.S. Ambassador Huckabee concluded a full program of diplomatic meetings at the President’s Residence, during which the new ambassadors of India, Canada, Belarus, the Dominican Republic, and Angola also submitted their diplomatic credentials.
President Isaac Herzog today, Monday, received the diplomatic credentials of seven new ambassadors to Israel from Belarus, India, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Angola, and the United States.
Speaking alongside new U.S. Ambassador Huckabee, President Herzog began by expressing his condolences to Christian communities
around the world following the passing of Pope Francis: “I share my deepest condolences with the Christian world, and with the Christian communities here in Israel and in the United States, for their great loss on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.”
The President stressed: “For years, and especially since October 7th, you have been a leading voice of moral clarity and conscience,” and added, “Your appointment as Ambassador by President Trump to this critical post is a shining reflection of the President’s love, friendship, and support for the State of Israel. We are deeply grateful for the historic steps he has taken to strengthen the ironclad U.S.–Israel alliance — and for his vocal solidarity and commitment as we fight to defend our people and bring each and every one of our hostages home. I know you, Mike, share both our heartbreak and our absolute resolve to see every last hostage freed from the Hamas dungeons and returned to their loved ones. Immediately. Every last one. I thank you for this allegiance of heart, and, no less, for your commitment to action. Nothing is more urgent. And nothing warrants our attention more than ending this despicable and ongoing crime against humanity — against every legal and ethical norm, against God Himself.”
The President noted: “You begin your new role at a decisive moment in the history of this region. On the one hand, the Abraham Accords, brokered by President Trump, have demonstrated the power of warm peace. They have shown what happens when nations turn their swords into ploughshares, their conflict into cooperation, their distrust into dialogue.
We can deepen this path. We believe that these words of faith in peace are not only a dream but a demand upon us — a vow to realize it. But to expand peace, we must also soberly recognize the threats to peace.”
He stressed: “The Ayatollah regime in Iran continues to pursue its radical vision of regional dominance and destabilization – on its own and via its proxies – while pursuing nuclear arms and openly calling for the destruction of Israel. History has taught us that when a radical regime declares, ‘Death to Israel and Death to America!’ we must take these threats seriously — and counter them with all of our determination, resolve, and might. For the sake of the safety of our people. For the sake of peace.”
He concluded: “Michal and I, and the entire nation of Israel, welcome you warmly to the land you love so dearly. May your term here offer you every opportunity to explore the length and breadth of this country and its beautiful tapestry of people. God bless you. God bless America. God bless Israel.”
Ambassador Huckabee thanked the President for his welcome and said: “I come to stand together with the State of Israel and the Jewish people, because I believe that it is not simply a geopolitical position, but a divine position.”
He added: “I stand here today fighting back tears because I am here, not just as a visitor, but now, for the next few years, this will be my home. Janet and I come with an extraordinary sense of awe and wonder
and deep gratitude to President Trump for giving us this extraordinary privilege.”
The Ambassador stressed: “I am here with the mission to stand with the people of Israel for peace and prosperity — to serve in a role that I pray will see times when the Israeli people can go to bed at night, not fearing that a siren will awaken them and force them into a shelter because enemies are irrationally dedicated to destroying them. I long for the day when that young Israeli mother puts her babies to bed at night and does not fear that some harm will come upon them as they sleep — but that they will rest with peace, and continue to live with the extraordinary resilience of the Israeli people, which I’ve come to admire as second to none.
Over these coming months, I pray that one thing we will see — and see it very soon — as you’ve so eloquently said, Mr. President: that every hostage returns home to their family. Every hostage. Those who are alive and those deceased, but whose remains are a reminder of the dignity that they deserve — to have a proper burial here in their home.”
“There are challenges, and I share with you that concern that the Iranian regime and all of its hostility, which has been inflicted upon the world for 46 years, continues to threaten not just the peace of Israel, but the peace of the United States. And I constantly remind people that the Iranians have always said ‘Death to Israel’, and chapter two is ‘Death to America’. It has always been their desire that Israel would be the opening act, and then it would be America's turn to face destruction.”
He stressed: “We care deeply, Mr. President, about the threats that face Israel, because those are also the threats that face our country. And I always want to remind my American colleagues that we stand with Israel, first of all, because we share the values of the Bible. We share the understanding that the Judeo-Christian foundation is the foundation of all Western civilization. Without it, there is no sense of democracy, and love, appreciation, and respect for the individual. But it's also important that Americans know that while we hope to be a good friend to Israel and to provide assistance where we can, I never want Americans to think that we Americans are not greatly benefited by our partnership with our ally Israel. We benefit dramatically in the sharing of intelligence, the sharing of technology, and the sharing of agricultural innovation, in which Israel has led the world.”
He concluded: “On behalf of the President and the American people, I thank you for your hospitality, and I welcome the opportunity to serve my President and my country in partnership toward the peace that you truly and most deservedly should have. Thank you, Mr. President.”
Earlier, the President received the diplomatic credentials of the Ambassador of Belarus, Yury Yaroshevich; Ambassador of India, Jitender Pal Singh; Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, Olivio A. Fermin; Ambassador of Canada, Leslie Scanlon; Ambassador of the Philippines, Aileen S. Mendiola-Rau; and Ambassador of Angola, Nelson Manuel Cosme.
Speaking to the Ambassador of India, the President said: “Returning the hostages is our highest priority. We want to see all the
hostages back home — every last one of them. They are going through hell, and we are very worried. I would add that it requires an enormous international effort, and I also want to thank your government, your Prime Minister, for standing with Israel since October 7.
Our governments enjoy strong relations, and we have to work together on the geostrategic issues: getting the hostages back home, preventing Iran from spreading terror, and moving toward peace, inclusion, and connectivity — and of course, enhancing the incredible relations between our peoples.”
Welcoming the Ambassador of Canada, the President noted the close friendship between the two nations. The Ambassador and the President spoke about the contribution and the importance of the well-being of the Jewish community in Canada. The President thanked the Ambassador for her words reiterating the call for the immediate release of the hostages held in Gaza.
Speaking with the Ambassador of the Philippines, the President expressed his condolences to the large Catholic community in the Philippines on the passing of the Pope. The President thanked the Ambassador for her country’s strong support for Israel, and they spoke about opportunities to deepen and expand the economic and cultural relationship between the two countries.
Welcoming the Ambassador of the Dominican Republic the President spoke of his pride that so many students from his country had come to Israel through the Mashav program, and of the importance of cooperation in the fields of water and agricultural technologies.
The President spoke with the Ambassador of Belarus about the rich Jewish history in the country, which was the birthplace of many great Jewish and Zionist leaders.
Welcoming the Ambassador of Angola, the President spoke of the important cooperation between the countries in developing water and agriculture technologies among other areas of cooperation.
Throughout each of his meetings, President Herzog stressed the supreme importance of bringing the hostages home.
Diplomacy.co.il
Photo credits: Amos Ben-Gershom (GPO)
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On Tuesday afternoon at the Kibbutz members dining room at Be'eri, the Ambassador of Greece to the State of Israel, H.E. Ms Maya Solomou hosted Greece's 204th anniversary of independence reception.
On the 25th of March 1821, fueled by the rallying cry, "Freedom or Death", Greek revolutionaries bagan a war for independence against the Ottoman Empire.The hard - fought victory established a sovereign Greek state and national homeland for Greece.
Mr. Josh Kostis, the Embassy's official translator, was Master of Ceremonies. He extended a warm welcome to everyone present and on behalf of the Greek Embassy expressed his thanks and gratitude to Kibbutz Be'eri for hosting the event. In case of rocket fire or an attack, safety instructions were announced.
The Ambassador, on behalf of the Embassy, thanked the residents of Kibbutz Be'eri from the bottom of our hearts who welcomed us to their premises and helped us organize this event. 204 Years after the Greek revolution, our country, despite all the challenges and difficulties, in a turbulent neighbourhood, remains a pillar of stability and peace, continuously seeking the progress and prosperity of its people while upholding its values and principles at every step. Greece and Israel share a historic bond, one built on a common cultural heritage, a deep - rooted friendship and a shared commitment to ideals that we wish to enhance and deepen further. From the first moment following the atrocities of October 7th, my country stood by Israel in its efforts to defend itself and secure its borders and its people. Our Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited Israel a few days after the terrible attack and another visit is in the pipeline for the near future. We urge for the unconditional release of all the hostages now so that the healing of the wounds can finally begin and the people of Israel can breathe again.
This year, a year in which Israel is still at war, we wanted to commemorate our national day here in the South with all our Israeli friends. We wanted to share this significant day with our friends in Kibbutz Be'eri, a symbol of courage, strength, persistence and resilience. We wanted to convey a message of support and solidarity to show that we have not forgotten that we stand with all the Kibbutzniks in their effort to heal the traumas and rebuild their lives, that we stand with all Israelis trying to learn to live in the aftermath of October 7th. We want to be next to you as hope and life will eventually replace the darkness. We want to be next to you as you remake your lives, rebuild your houses, plant your gardens and turn the ruins into light. Better days lie ahead and you will be able to dance again and when you do that we will dance with you.
Hamutal Rogel Fuchs, the Foreign Ministry's Head of the Southern Europe Department, represented the Government of Israel saying that it was an honour and pleasure to do so this afternoon in celebrating the Hellenistic Republic of Greece's independence day. Greece is the cradle of democracy where science, philosophy and art blossomed, creating the foundation of Western Civilization. Despite challenges from within and without, Greece has succeeded in establishing itself as an essential element of the Mediterranean basin and Europe. Israel and Greece enjoy what has proven to be a long - lasting relationship based on mutual respect and appreciation which contributes significantly to the strategic goal of peace and stability in our region. Two weeks ago our Minister of foreign Affairs was on an official visit to Athens meeting counterparts to discuss ways to expand and deepen cooperation.
We stand here today with Kibbutz Be'eri, the heart of the area devastated by the horrific massacre committed by Hamas on October 7, the darkest day in Israel's history. On a personal note, it is also very emotional for me since I was born and raised on a Kibbutz and we have built our house not far away from here in Ein Habsor. Standing here in Kibbutz Be'eri, is also a testament to resilience, determination and the unbreakable will to rebuild and live.
I would like to thank the government of the Hellenistic Republic for its efforts in preserving Jewish history in Greece and its commitment to raising awareness among the Greek people about the holocaust. The creation of the Holocaust Museum in Thessaloniki concomitant with national events held across Greece to mark International Holocaust Day are clear evidence of these efforts.
Youval Haran, Kibbutz Be'eri's Official Representative, spoke with alacrity and without any notes mentioning that his grandparents lived in Be'eri and that the Kibbutz was always a close knit community. On October 7th, his Father, Uncle and Aunt were killed and 7 family members kidnapped who were all returned. Life is strong and what happened in Be'eri is unacceptable as it is a human issue. Ha'azmaut not only means Independence but also Freedom. 102 People were murdered on the Kibbutz and 30 hostages were taken. We are elated that the Ambassador decided to host national day here. At present there are still 59 hostages in captivity. We in Be'eri started a way to live after October 7th and although most members are not presently living here but hope to return back home. It is my personal wish for everyone to know a better life and together have a better future in the hope that all hostages will return.
After the three tear jerking speeches which evoked much emotion the National anthems of Greece and Israel were played.
Guests enjoyed catering by Lalush Bakery from Kibbutz Be'eri and all produce served was from the Kibbutz which included traditional Greek food namely spanakopita, tzatziki, platters of vegetable crudites and a selection of cheese as well as wine imported from Greece and Ouzo, a dry anise flavoured aperitif.
Many Ambassadors made the effort to come from Tel Aviv as well as diplomats, state officials, heads of N.G.O. 's , public personalities such as internationally renowned Greek photographer, Vangel Kyris who will host an exhibition at the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv opening on the 28th of March. Also present were Mrs. Hamutal Rogel Fuchs, Head of the Israeli Foreign Ministry Southern Europe Department, Ambassador H.E. Mr. Dan Oryan the Foreign Ministry's Director of Civic Diplomacy, Mr. Ran Natanzon, Head of Foreign Ministry's Innovation and Country Branding , Public Diplomacy Division, Ms. Noga Caspi, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director of Middle East Economic Relations Department, Mr. Shmuel Shevach, President of the Association of Survivors of Concentration Camps of Greek Origin Living in Israel, Mr. Kobi Bitton, who has been CEO of the Israel Greek Chamber of Commerce for the past 15 years, Dr. Ron Tomer, President of the Manufacturers' Association of Israel, Mr. Alan M. Schneider Adv, Director of B'nai B'rith World Centre, Mr. Konstantinos and Mrs. Maria Zinovios, the Greek Consul of Haifa, Colonel Konstantinos Bacharis who is on a year's sabbatical studying at the Israel National Defence College, Mr. Nathan Allalouf, Honorary Consul of Costa Rica and owner of Allalouf and Co. Shipping Ltd. and Mr. Ariel Goldshtein, Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Ayala Meitav, The Tel Aviv - Jaffa Municipality's Senior Project Manager for International Relations, .
Diplomacy.co.il expresses its congratulations to the Ambassador of Greece and to the staff of the Embassy of Greece's on its 204th anniversary of independence as well as its thanks and appreciation for an unforgettable time at the Kibbutz Be'eri.
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On the eve of Monday, 11 March, the Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania, H.E. Mr. Audrius Bruzga and Mrs. Imsre Sabaliunas - Bruzgiene hosted a reception at the Anu Museum of the Jewish People, University of Tel Aviv in honour of the 35th anniversary of the Day of the Restoration of Independence marking the end of a 50 year occupation and annexation by the Soviet powers and the efforts of the nation to preserve the spirit of freedom.
The Master of Ceremonies, Evelina, represented the Embassy of Lithuania, warmly welcoming everyone present. The ceremony commenced with the playing of both national anthems .
The Ambassador's keynote address was introduced in impressive Hebrew. He stated that it is a good feeling to be back at the Anu Museum of the Jewish People. I feel at home here as a great deal of Jewish History comes from Lithuania. The Yivo Institute of Jewish Research was established in Berlin and subsequently moved to New York. The Institute is dedicated to fostering knowledge of the history and culture of East European Jewry and houses a world renowned library and research facilities. On Wednesday, 12 March at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art the Embassy of Lithuania will participate in a symposium, film screening and exhibition entitled "Vilnius,Then and Now" about the Great Synagogue of Vilna which was excavated for 6 years. This event is dedicated to the Yivo Jewish Research Institute's centennial anniversary. Peace, both in Europe and the Middle East has been threatened, Israel has not been the same since the 7th of October 2023 and the perpetrators must be brought to justice. Peace in Ukraine remains elusive and the Ukranians have been abandoned and left alone. The world is in a situation where people can no longer identify the villain as well the victim. My people fully support Ukraine. I also see encouraging signs of things normalizing in Israel. The Ambassador welcomed Mr. Simon Davidson, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset. In conclusion, the Ambassador mentioned that the Embassy will arrange a series of events honoring the 150th anniversary of Lithuania's most prominent artist who was also a composer , Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis who died young in 1911. He already then advocated for and envisaged a free and independent Lithuanian state. His art is depicted by themes of fantasy and virtual reality films of his colourful and tranquil work that have been created for the purpose of relaxation and therapy.
The Government of the State of Israel was represented by Rabbi Uri Maklev, Deputy Minister of Transport and Road Safety. He began his speech by stating that over the years the two countries have established a solid and open relationship of friendship based on shared values and cooperation as well as Lithuania's support for Israel in various international forums. Cooperation exists in innovation, cyber security, global climate change, education, culture, economics and health. Israel is struggling with the heart breaking tasks of burying our dead, rehabilitating the hostages after suffering more than 500 days of abuse and starvation and reconstructing decimated towns, villages and communities and working towards the release of the remaining hostages. I would like to express my support to the Lithuanian government with regards to the threat from Iran and for designating the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization. As antisemitism is on the rise we commend the Government of Lithuania for its approach and battle against this iniquitous ideology. He ended by asking the Ambassador to convey the warm wishes of the Government and people of Israel to the Government and people of Lithuania.
Mr. Simon Davidson, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset and Chairman of the Israel Lithuanian Friendship Group immigrated from Vilnius in 1972 spoke, mentioning that a week ago he visited Lithuania together with a Knesset parliamentary delegation in order to strengthen the relationship between the Knesset and the Seimas, Lithuania's parliament. He attended an official memorial ceremony at Ponar Forest where many of 94% of Lithuanian Jewry were slaughtered. We returned home with confidence and knowledge knowing that relations will intensify for the good. We have to do everything within our power to secure the release of the 59 remaining hostages held in Gaza's tunnels.
There was a raffle of three prizes, third and second prize was a food hamper and first prize was sponsored by Mr. Pini Kleiner of Overseas Travel which included flights and a stay for two people at Lithuania's premium health spa, Birstonas.
The entrance and stage was decorated by flowers in Lithuania's
A lavish diary buffet was served consisting of a selection of cheese, quiches, salads and deserts as well as wine and nonalcoholic beverages.
Guests of importance included many Ambassadors, diplomats, state officials, business people and Lithuanian expatriates. Present was Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Shai Schnitzer, Lithuania's Honorary Consul and President of S.Schnitzer Diamonds with offices in Ramat Gan, New York and Hong Kong, Dr. Laurance Weinbaum, Director General of the Israel Council on Foreign Relations and Chief Editor of the Israel Journal of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Mickey Kantor, Director of Beit Vilna - The Association of Jews from Vilna and Vicinity in Israel, Brigadier - General (Res) Amir Avivi of IDSF (Israel Defence Security Force), Mr. Daniel Ivanov, Director of Ourcrowd which is Israel's largest venture capital fund, Mrs Collete Avital, Chairperson of the Centre Organization of Holocaust Survivors in Israel, Secretary General of the World Jewish Restitution Organization and Vice President of the Conference of Material Claims Against Germany, Dr. Rachel Fund, a retired Pediatrician born and educated in Vilnius who immigrated 52 years ago to Israel, Mr. Asher Salmon, Head of the Ministry of Health's International Affairs Division and Mr. David Kaplan, born in Vilnius who immigrated to Israel and worked as an engineer at Israel Aircraft Industry.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates H.E. Mr. Audrius Bruzga and Mrs. Imsre Sabaliunas Bruzgiene as well as all staff at the Embassy of Lithuania in Tel Aviv on a happy 35 anniversary of the Day of Restoration of Independence of Lithuania and for a memorable evening. .
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On Monday evening, 24th of March, Dr. David Rutstein, the Secretary-General of the Bahá’í International Community hosted a traditional reception at the David Citadel in Jerusalem in honour of their New Year, known as Naw-Rúz, the ancient Persian New Year dating back to Darius. Naw-Rúz is annually celebrated in many countries in the Northern hemisphere namely Iran, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Mr. David and Mrs. Tracy Freeman, Representatives of the Bahá’í International Community based in Jerusalem warmly welcomed all guests at the entrance to the banquet hall. In the centre of the banquet hall a retinue of the Bahá’í Chief Executive Officers, Secretary-General Dr. David Rutstein, Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Ariane Sabet and Deputy Secretary-General Mr. Shervin Setareh stood in line with their spouses welcoming everyone.
Dr. Ariane Sabet, Deputy Secretary-General was Master of Ceremonies and spoke eloquently and lucidly saying that “the vernal equinox brings the expectation of light and increased sunshine making the physical world blossom and bloom serving as a symbol of renewal, transformation and upliftment to humanity. Tonight light, radiance, compassion, hope and high aspirations have received invitations to be present in our midst. Just like spring in nature, this gathering may brighten the world by exploring points of unity in the rich diversity of our guests and hosts.”
She went on to explain that “the Bahá’í World Centre in the Haifa Acco area, is the international headquarters of this global religion of over 9 million followers. At any given time, around 750 volunteers from 90 countries are serving at the heart and nerve centre of the Bahá’í World.”
A short Indian classical dance celebrating transcendence and beauty was performed by three dancers against the backdrop of a photograph of the Bahá’í House of Worship in New Delhi which is in the form of a lotus flower.
Dr. David Rutstein, the Bahá’í Secretary-General warmly welcomed everyone present. He pointed out in the ballroom lobby the representation of the Arizona Garden, beds of succulent flowers that have existed for decades in the Bahá’í Gardens in Haifa and in Acco. He encouraged guests to visit the Bahá’í World Centre which is the permanent spiritual and administrative centre of the Bahá’í Faith. He noted that there is no clergy in the Bahá’í Fatih but that it is led by an international governing council known as the Universal House of Justice, which is composed of nine members who are elected every five years with no nomination or campaigning. He also stated: “There is a diversity of people in the world, yet humanity is one. This is an ideal principle of ours. This is symbolized by the multifaceted colours of flowers in our gardens.”
“While the Bahá’í World Centre is in Israel’s north, this year is the 40th anniversary of our office in Jerusalem. It has been staffed without interruption for 40 years. It is currently staffed by our, Mr. David Freeman and his wife Mrs. Tracy Freeman, well known by everyone in Israel's diplomatic community.”
The government of Israel was represented by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Sharren Haskel, born in Montreal who speaks Hebrew, English and French. She spoke convincingly and passionately mentioning that she was privileged to be present representing the State of Israel. Thereafter she expressed her thanks to Mr. David Freeman, Bahá’í Jerusalem Representative. She stated “The Bahá’í Faith is one of two officially recognized communities in Israel. Israel is based on freedom, justice and peace as espoused by our prophets. Israel guarantees religious freedom where there is no other country in the region that does so. Religious pilgrimage by all faiths is also encouraged and guaranteed. The Bahá’í Faith and its adherents are a great principle and asset for me. In 2008, UNESCO designated the Bahá’í gardens in Haifa as a World Heritage property which has contributed to Israel's cultural landscape. The Bahá’í Faith has tied its faith to ours.”
A short movie produced by the Bahá'í World News Service entitled "Hope Helps You Find Joy" was shown. For the last 18 months Bahá’í spaces have been opened to the public to provide hope and joy. Last month an event near Acco was arranged in honour of "Ayyám-i-Há" or Days of Joy, a four- or five-day celebration between the 18th and 19th calendar month. Naw-Rúz occurs at the end of the 19th month and also marks the beginning of Spring. This event gave participants an opportunity to interact and experience joy. Readers can view the film at https://news.bahai.org/story/1784
The last event of the evening was a nine voice African choir accompanied by a guitarist from Luxembourg and two percussionists. The choir had singers from Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Namibia, Chad and Cameroon. Two songs were performed in Swahili set to the writings of the founder of the Bahá’í faith, the Bahá’u’lláh.
A lavish buffet fit for a King was served. There was an Italian, Spanish and Vegan corner as well as assado, baked salmon, teriyaki spring chicken, schnitzel, corned beef, vegetable dumplings, tortillas with fillings, chicken fajitas, chili con carne, salads, a selection of bread, and sumptuous desserts with an array of cakes, seasonal fresh fruit, oriental pastries, maraschino cherries as well as hot beverages including tea and coffee. Bahá’í faith prohibits alcohol thus all drinks were non-alcoholic including exotic fruit cocktails.
Upon leaving the banquet hall, guests were given a colourfully designed and decorated envelope containing a poem written by Abdu'l-Bahá, Bahá’u’lláh’s son expressing God's holy dispensation being love.
Present were many Ambassadors, Diplomats, Head of N.G.O. 's, spiritual leaders of the different religious communities in Israel, Mrs. Rebekah Kosinski, formerly from the U.N.D.P. and The Quartet who now works in advocacy in the field of international relations and "remotely" teaches aspiring diplomats in Spain, Mr. Samir Rushdy from Egypt who is a Bahá’í World Centre Western Galilee Officer, Retired Ambassador H.E. Mr. Shlomo Avital who is Chairman-President of the Israel-Africa Friendship Association and last but not least Mr. Aaron Braunstein, a retired U.S. Foreign Service officer who heads Counter Terror Creations LTD. - CTC, an incubator holding company in the war on terror.
Diplomacy.co.il wishes the Director General, Dr. and Mrs David Rutstein , Mr. David and Mrs. Tracy Freeman and all adherents of the Baha'i International Faith a "Naw - Ruz Mubarak" and a million thanks to everyone involved who actualized this memorable evening of celebration.
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On February 27, 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Israel hosted an official reception at the Dan Hotel in Tel Aviv to celebrate Bulgaria’s National Day, March 3rd, marking 147 years since the country’s liberation from Ottoman rule. The event was moderated by Mr. Moni Leon Bar, Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in Israel, who played a key role in supporting the Embassy in organizing the event.
Ambassador Gergova’s Speech: A Strong Message of Solidarity and Historical Reflection
H.E. Slavena Gergova, Bulgaria’s Ambassador to Israel, delivered a powerful speech honoring Bulgaria’s struggle for freedom and drawing historical parallels between Bulgaria’s past and Israel’s present challenges. She expressed deep condolences for the victims of the October 7th terrorist attacks and called for the immediate and full implementation of all phases of the hostage deal, emphasizing the importance of securing the return of all abducted individuals.
Ambassador Gergova also reaffirmed Bulgaria’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that negotiations for the end of the Russian war in Ukraine must include the country itself and the European Union.
Marking the 35th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Israel, she highlighted the special bond between the two nations. She recalled Bulgaria’s heroic rescue of its more than 48,000 Jews during World War II, stressing the importance of preserving Holocaust memory and combating modern antisemitism. Furthermore, she underlined Bulgaria’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Israel across multiple sectors, including tourism, trade, labor, investments, IT, and innovation.
Minister Haim Katz: Strengthening Bilateral Ties Amid Global Challenges
Speaking on behalf of the Israeli government, Minister of Tourism Haim Katz expressed gratitude for Bulgaria’s consistent support, especially in the wake of recent tragic events. He acknowledged the deep historical connection between the two nations, highlighting Bulgaria’s actions to protect its Jewish population during World War II.
Minister Katz addressed the current challenges facing Israel, including ongoing terrorist attacks and rising global antisemitism. He thanked Bulgaria for its commitment to the security of the Jewish community and Israeli tourists visiting Bulgaria. He also praised Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen Agreement and its expected entry into the OECD, expressing hope that these developments would further strengthen its economy.
Regarding tourism, Minister Katz noted that Bulgaria remains a popular destination for Israeli travelers, offering diverse attractions year-round. He encouraged greater tourism exchange, hoping to see more Bulgarian visitors in Israel.
President Isaac Herzog: Bulgaria chose to stand courageously against the dangerous suspension of morality
The President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, congratulated Bulgarian officials and guests at the reception with a heartfelt video message highlighting the special bond between the two countries. He acknowledged Bulgaria’s long standing support for Israel and the Jewish people throughout history, particularly following the events of October 7th. He emphasized Israel's desire to facilitate high-level visits in 2025, when the two countries will celebrate the 35th anniversary of their diplomatic restoration.
Distinguished guests expressed their gratitude to Bulgaria for its clear stance in support of Israel and the fight against terrorism and highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two nations, rooted in historical moments such as Bulgaria’s rescue of its Jewish population during World War II. Among the official guests were representatives of the Israeli Presidency office, the Israeli government and institutions, representatives of the diplomatic corps – many ambassadors, military attaches, diplomats, representatives of the Israeli civil society and Israeli business, as well as the leaders of the Bulgarian Jewish organizations and prominent members of the Bulgarian Jewish community in Israel.
The evening featured a special musical performance by Mr. Arik Davidov, a Bulgarian Jew, world-renowned trumpet virtuoso, and descendant of three generations of trumpet players. His rendition of the Bulgarian and Israeli national anthems symbolized the strong and enduring friendship between the two nations.
The participant was given a real culinary journey, prepared by the chiefs of the Dan Hotel, which included delicacies of Bulgarian and international cuisine, which became a unique gastronomic delight.
The reception underscored the deep and enduring partnership between Bulgaria and Israel, built on shared democratic values, historical solidarity, and a steadfast commitment to enhanced cooperation. In the current challenging global context, the diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries continue to strengthen, fostering future collaboration and deeper connections.
This year’s commemoration of March 3rd was not only a tribute to Bulgaria’s past but also a powerful message of solidarity and empathy for the victims of terrorism. It served as a reminder that freedom is the highest value—one that nations must defend, regardless of time or place.
Diplomacy.co.il warmly congratulates H.E. Ms. Slavena Gergova and the Embassy staff on the 147 Bulgaria’s Liberation Day
Written by Mrs. Antoanet (Tony) Levy – External Relations & Innovation, HIT Holon Institute of Technology, PO
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