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- Written by Leslie Sachs Aiello
Representatives of many faith communities and various embassies gathered last Tuesday evening, March 22nd, to celebrate Naw-Ruz, the Bahai New Year. The thoughtfulness and care that created the beautiful and world-renowned Bahai Gardens in Haifa were evident in the gorgeous display of bright flowers and lush greenery that were artfully arranged to create a calming mood as guests strolled by on their way into the main ballroom of the David Citadel Hotel. The positive energy continued as attendees, many of them diplomats in colorful national attire, were warmly greeted by the leadership of the Baha'i Community here in Israel, which is home to the World Center of this distinctive group. The joy at being able to finally celebrate together in person after so much pandemic-related isolation was palpable.
The Bahai faith, a recent addition relative to the other major world religions (1844), quickly spread throughout the world, because of its basic appeal to the higher aspirations of human nature. A monotheistic religion, it recognizes all prior prophets as messengers of a Supreme Being who desires humanity to understand and respect His will. The unity of God and the unity of humanity are both primary values and other basic tenets include the search for truth; strengthening the common elements of all religions; faith in fundamental harmony between religion and science; volunteering; equality between men and women; monogamy; denial of prejudices and superstitions; strict obedience to the laws of the local government, non-violence, and international cooperation. According to founder Bahá'u'lláh, these values of global peace, scientific progress and ethical behavior represent successive stages in the spiritual development of mankind.
To emphasize this focus on interrelatedness and a desire for connecting, the program opened with a beautiful song about unity performed by a trio of talented women harmoniously combining the musical contributions of clarinet, bass cello, piano, and voice. The Secretary-General's Dr. David Rutstein opening remarks noted that the main purpose of the evening was to bring joy to all the participants as a show of gratitude to Israel for its abiding acceptance and support of the Bahai World Centre since its inception until today.
There were several references to the power of timing. The first pointed out how appropriate it is to celebrate New Years at the beginning of spring as the earth and its inhabitants wake up from winter and embrace a new cycle of rebirth and renewal. This natural drive for growth fits well with the enhanced hope and confidence in man’s ability and commitment to meet the challenges we face expressed so eloquently by the members of the Bahai community. However, as the founder wisely points out, "Every age hath its own problem, and every soul its particular aspiration. The remedy the world needeth in its present-day afflictions can never be the same as that which a subsequent age may require" so those who strive for improvement must be always aware and flexible.
Tjeriya Tjitendero, Head of Programming, then presented an amazing and informative survey of the abundant activities being conducted by the many caring Baha'i communities around the globe who are dedicated to the betterment of their fellow humans. This commitment to leave the world a better place has inspired innumerable projects on several continents from Honduras and Chile to Kenya, the Republic of Congo and Ethiopia to India and Kazakhstan all the way to Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. Bahai leaders have been active participants in international forums addressing women's equality, climate change & ecological stability. Other worthy projects were spearheaded by local Baha'i communities to meet regional needs such as eliminating hate speech, food distribution, promoting peace discourse, encouraging collaborations between leaders of science and faith, and improving educational opportunities.
After being very warmly introduced, Aaron Davidi, the Director-General of the Ministry of Justice, addressed the participants and described the very special and unique relationship that has existed between the Israeli government and the Bahai World Centre and Community since Haifa became their spiritual headquarters. As Head of the Inter-ministerial Committee for relations between the State of Israel and the Bahai Community, he looks forward to further enhancing these close ties. He added that the Ministry of Justice recognizes the Bahai community as integral to Israeli society and is committed to protecting their holy places and their right to continue to practice their religion freely. Minister Davidi concluded by wishing everyone a peaceful and healthy Naw-Ruz.
Since man does not subsist solely on lofty ideals and positive energy alone, the upbeat evening included a sumptuous buffet with many aromatic and flavorful dishes of fish, chicken, beef, and vegetables representing many cuisines from Mexican to Asian to our own Middle-Eastern. Not surprisingly, the dessert table containing a wide variety of cakes, petit fours, and other sweet concoctions and fresh fruits was very popular. After the formal program concluded, guests were invited to stay and linger they did, greeting old friends and initiating new cordial relationships in an atmosphere of warmth and excitement for the possibility of what might develop from these connections
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the Bahaim on this wonderful celebration, and wishes a happy Now-Ruz to all the Community
Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
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- Written by Silvia G. Golan
The Trnava region in Slovakia is happy to introduce in the IMTM tourism fair in Tel Aviv the unique tourist attractions of the Danube Delta, at the foothills of the Little Carpathian Mountain Range
The region is rich in pampering spas and thermal spring waters, superior wineries, golf courses, culture and history, fine cuisine and world-class wines, quality honey, sports facilities, and racetracks amongst the largest in the world, magical castles, shopping centres, sustainable tourism, unique galleries, and museums
On the occasion of the IMTM International Tourism Fair at the Tel Aviv Expo, the Trnava region in Slovakia will hold a special event in Jerusalem, to introduce the unique tourist attractions at the Danube Delta and the region's capital known as "Little Rome of Slovakia". The event will take place at the Slovak Institute, 19 King David St. Jerusalem, and will be attended by the Slovak Ambassador to Israel, Igor Maukš, senior officials from the Trnava region, wholesale tourism, and travel agents from both countries as well as media representatives.
The Trnava region is one of the eight regions of Slovakia, located in the western part of Slovakia and near the borders of Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. The airport in the capital Bratislava is only 45 km from the region and Vienna airport is only 110 km away. Budapest is 215 km away and Prague 400 km. The county is connected to these major cities by a network of highways and express trains. The region is famous for its largest drinking water reservoir in Europe and rivers with clean water and essential minerals for body health. The region's healing springs, spas, and health resorts have become well-known in Europe. The wines produced in the region are excellent and so is the honey production.
The spa town of Piešťany is known worldwide for its fine spas, its unique sulfur mud, and the waters of the healing springs from geothermal sources. The town became famous for its hot springs and sulfur mud, which were found to have medicinal properties, due to the high concentration of sulfur, hydrogen, bromine, and magnesium. The hot springs and mud water has a positive medical effect on those suffering from inflammatory problems, skeletal problems, joint problems, and nerve problems, and thanks to them the town became famous not only in Europe but throughout the world.
Piešťany houses six spa hotel complexes in the area called the "Spa Island". This is one of the largest and unique spa complexes in Europe. One of the most remarkable hotels on the spa island is the Thermia Palace Hotel, with Art Nouveau architecture style. The city of Trnava serves as the capital of the Trnava region, and it is known as the "Little Rome of Slovakia" famous for its numerous churches. Despite its size, the city used to be an important center of the Hungarian Empire. It has magical historical streets, museums and art galleries, and a great atmosphere for the whole family. The city's famous clock tower dating from the Renaissance period gives the city a special and magical atmosphere.
Trnava University, built in the Baroque style, gives the city a lively and vibrant atmosphere. There are 11 churches and 2 synagogues in the city. The Jewish community in Trnava is one of the oldest in Slovakia and existed as early as the 12th century. Many impressive castles are scattered throughout Slovakia. One of them is Smolenice Castle, built in the 14th century. Near the magical castle, it is recommended to visit the stalactite cave of Driny. For those interested in history and the Habsburg dynasty, it is recommended to visit Holíč Castle.
Wine connoisseurs will love the Trnava district and especially the autumn wine festivals. The wineries in Trnava are famous for their family tradition. The wine industry in this region began as early as 3000 years ago. Many vineyards are spread there as well as wineries that produce quality local wine. The Slovak wines from the Carpathian region were especially popular with members of the royal families of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and especially by Maria Theresa of Habsburg.
The Trnava region is also known for its fine honey production which strengthens the immune system. The renowned X-bionic® sphere sports complex in Šamorín, includes sports facilities of the highest level. This special resort offers athletes advanced sports facilities for 26 Olympic sports. There is also an Olympic and modern horse-riding facility, which also hosts international competitions. Trnava region is considered a paradise for golf players, with golf courses of the highest standards in the world. One of the world-renowned golf courses is Penati Golf Resort. The motor sport is also popular in Slovakia, thanks to world-class racing tracks, some of the largest in the world. Adrenaline enthusiasts can enjoy a helicopter ride, a paragliding experience or fly a hot air balloon. Several ports for cruise tourism are also located in the Trnava region.
The Piešťany airport has the potential for direct flights from Israel. The Airport is comfortable/tiny offering good services for charter flights, VIP and private flights tailor made for different target groups.
Images courtesy: Trnava Regional Tourism Board.
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- Written by Silvia G. Golan
23 Members of Parliament from around the world will arrive next week to participate in the annual Chairmen’s conference of the Israel Allies Foundation (IAF)
The biggest political conference to take place in Israel since the Covid pandemic
In partnership with the Combat Anti-Semitism Movement
They will meet with Ministers Yair Lapid TBD, Matan Kahana, Yuli Edelstein, Ze’ev Elkin, the head of the Binyamin Regional Council Israel, Israel Gantz, Natan Sharansky and more * They will tour Jerusalem, Atarot and Psagot * Will discuss the situation in Ukraine * Sign a resolution that they pledge to continue to fight anti-Semitism in the world
23 Parliamentarians from around the world, including the Minister of Technology from Uruguay, Senator Mizrahi from Colombia running in the May presidential election, US Republican congressman Doug Lamborn, Democratic congressman and close ally of Biden Juan Vargas, MPs from Finland, Holland, Sweden, Romania, England, Wales, Kenya, Liberia and more will attend the eighth annual conference next week on the 20-22th of March in the King David Hotel in Jerusalem.
Many of these parliament members serve as Chairman of the Israel Allies Caucuses in their parliaments , advancing pro-Israel legislation. Israel Allies Caucuses worldwide focus on legislation against antisemitism, anti-Zionism and de-legitimization of Israel.
This year the Chairman’s Conference will focus on combatting antisemitism, the Iranian nuclear deal, construction in Jerusalem and the situation in Ukraine.
The members of this delegation are scheduled to meet with influential Israeli politicians such as Ministers Yair Lapid (TBD), Matan Kahana, Yuli Edelstein, Zeev Elkin, Binyamin Regional Council Chairman Israel Gantz, Natan Sharansky and more.
On Sunday, March 20, 2222, the members of parliament will tour Jerusalem - the Western Wall, the City of David and continue to Psagot and from there to Atarot, where they will sign a declaration which reads “We support the sovereign right of the State of Israel to build in its indivisible capital of Jerusalem”.
This is the largest international political delegation to come to Israel since the emergence of the covid pandemic. This year, a parliament member from Malawi will travel to Israel for her first time, announcing the opening date of the embassy in Jerusalem.
Among the prominent MPs who will attend this year's conference:
Senator Edgar Mizrahi of Colombia, who intends to run for president in May
Republican Congressman Doug Lamborn, who is working to stop the funding given to the Palestinian Authority on the grounds that the funds are being transferred to terrorists.
Democratic Congressman Juan Vargas who is very close to Biden but opposes the Iran deal.
Member of Parliament from Malawi Joyce Chitsulo to declare the date of the move of Malawi's embassy to Jerusalem
Uruguay's Minister of Technology - Ruperto Long
Venezuelan lawmaker Lawrence Castro, an opposition man who opposes President Maduro and opposes Biden's request to buy fuel from the ruler and dictator of his generation.
Member of Parliament from Finland, Peter Ostman, who is currently working on the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism in Finland, at a time when Putin is threatening Finland.
Romanian MP Ben Oni Ardelean who will talk about the situation on Romania's border with Ukraine
EU Member of Parliament Bert-Jan Ruissen from the Netherlands, who will talk about the situation in Ukraine
Member of Parliament for the United Kingdom Mark Pritchard who is the vice chair of the UK’s parliamentary group on Ukraine.
Additional MPs from Sweden, Guatemala, Slovakia, Honduras, the Czech Republic, Kenya, Liberia and more will attend the conference.
IAF President Josh Reinstein, stated: "This year, the Jerusalem Chairman’s Conference will prepare legislators from all over the world to tackle rising anti-Semitism. While meeting with ministers and leading political figures in Israel, we will also focus on the war in Ukraine and strengthening our united capital of Jerusalem. We will continue to empower faith-based diplomacy and will use all the means at our disposal to fight anti-Semitism around the world."
Israel Allies Foundation.
Founded in 2007, The Israel Allies Foundation is dedicated to promoting communication between parliamentarians and legislators around the world over who share a belief that the State of Israel has the right to exist in peace within secure borders.
Today, the IAF coordinates the activities of 50 Israel Allies Caucuses around the world.
www.facebook.com/israelalliesfoundation
Photo Avi Hayoun
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- Written by Silvia G. Golan & Steven Aiello
Embassy of Kazakhstan Brings the Sights and Sounds of Spring to Israel with Joyous Nowruz Celebration at Ambassador’s Residence
The Embassy of Kazakhstan brought the sights and sounds of Spring to Israel on Sunday afternoon, with a joyous Nowruz celebration at the home of Ambassador Satybaldy Burshakov and his wife Maira Karakeshova.
Nowruz, or “New Day”, marks the spring equinox, and has been celebrated by various nations for thousands of years, ranging from Afghanistan and India to Turkey, and of course Central Asia. This year UN Secretary General António Guterres’ noted the twin features of Nowruz, a celebration of renewal, as well as the beauty of human diversity:
“Nowruz is a celebration of new beginnings. The beginning of a new year. The arrival of spring…Nowruz is also a celebration of our diversity. It unites over 300 million people…It is a time to learn about each other, our cultures and our world.”
In that regard, the embassy of Kazakhstan in Israel championed the spirit of Nowruz, with a colorful and engaging celebration that regaled guests with the colors, sounds and flavors of Nowruz. Ambassador Satybaldy Burshakov invited the guests to enjoy the cultural richness of Nowruz with music and dance performances by Kazakhstani students studying in Israel. Amirlan Nazhmetdinov. an international student at Bar Ilan University, performed several traditional Kazakhstani songs. Then Amre Nursaulet and Melissova Diana, dancers from the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography who are spending a semester studying at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, performed several synchronized dance pieces, to the delight of the guests.
Following the music and dance performances, guests enjoyed a lavish lunch, with numerous traditional Central Asian delicacies, like baursak and samsa. A well-decorated Yurt outside of the ambassador’s residence, including traditional clothing and various books published by the embassy, further added to the rich cultural experience.
Nowruz was recognized as an intangible cultural heritage practice by UNESCO in 2009, at the initiative of Kazakhstan, together with Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. In 2010, UN General Assembly Resolution 64/253 proclaimed the “International Day of Nowruz”.
Among the distinguished guests to join in the celebration were H.E. Mr. Khaled Azmi, the ambassador of Egypt; H.E. Mr. Sanjeev Singla, the ambassador of India; H.E. Mr. Mizushima Koichi, the ambassador of Japan; H.E. Ms. Feruza Makhmudova, the ambassador of Uzbekistan, H.E. Evgeny Vorobyev, the ambassador of Belarus; H.E. the Charge d'Affaires of Turkey Mr. Mehmet Fazil Sekerci , Mr. Nikoloz Chaloev, Senior Counselor of the embassy of Georgia; Mr. David Luxemburg, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Israel, Mr. Dmitry Shkaf, the honorary consul of Kyrgyzstan and Mrs Zina Polyanskaya Chairman of the All- Israel Association of Immigrants from Kazakhstan.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the Embassy of Kazakhstan on this wonderful celebration, and wishes a happy Nowruz to all those celebrating.
Steven Aiello
Founder--DebateforPeace
Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
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A historic delegation of Moroccan business leaders joined their Israeli counterparts for the inaugural Morocco-Israel Business Forum today at the Tel Aviv Hilton. The conference featured the largest business delegation ever to travel to Israel, and also inaugurated direct flights from Morocco to Israel on Royal Air Maroc, the Moroccan national airline.
Israeli Minister of Regional Cooperation Mr. Issawi Frej opened the conference with a warm welcome for his “Morrocan brethren”, pointing out that not only did his own family have Moroccan roots, but between Arabic speakers and Jews of Moroccan heritage, there are strong ties between Israel and Morocco. Speaking in Arabic as well as English, the minister noted that “peace is the only way” and called for increased economic ties and people to people diplomacy to build upon the formal peace of the Abraham Accords.
Deputy Foreign Minister Idan Roll thanked the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), Israeli Chamber of Commerce, Morocco-Israel Business Council, Israeli Export Institute, and the Manufacturers’ Association of Israel for organizing the event. Deputy Minister Roll expressed his conviction that the relationship between the two countries would only continue to grow, from trade to tourism, and said that Israel was looking forward to hosting Moroccan Foreign Minister Bourita later in the year.
Mr. Hadar Shor, Director of the Middle East, Africa & India Department at Foreign Trade Administration of the Minister of Economy, noted that the first trade cooperation agreement between Israel and Morocco had been signed just last month. Mr. Shor noted that the business ties would ensure that peace led to economic prosperity and growth, with the Israeli Ministry of Economy estimating that the Israeli-Moroccan volume of trade could quintuple within half a decade, going from 100 million USD to 500 million USD within just five years.
Mr. Alj Chakib, the President of CGEM, talked about the positive business environment created in Morocco under King Mohammad VI, as well as the prominence of Morocco as a gateway to the African economy, as well as its proximity to the European economy, painting a very positive image of the latent economic potential in Morocco in general, and specifically the opportunities for economic cooperation between Israel and Morocco.
Moroccan Ambassador Abderrahim Beyyoud was the final speaker, speaking a few sentences in Hebrew, before delivering his remarks in English. He talked about the importance of the development of Israeli-Moroccan ties, including the first flight of Royal Air Maroc being piloted by two women. The ambassador noted that Morocco represents a point of stability and a strategically key market. Applauding the growth of Moroccan-Israeli ties in just one year, the ambassador credited the Jewish-Moroccan connection as setting the stage for a mutually beneficial relationship, and furthering the path of peace.
Following the opening speeches, two new Memoranda of Understandings were signed by Dr. Ron Tomer, Chairman of the Presidents of Employers and Businesses and President of the Manufacturers Association, and Adv. Uriel Lin, President of the Association of Chambers of Commerce, together with Mr. Chakib Alg, President of CGEM. Promotional videos highlighting the economic potential and investment opportunities in Israel and Morocco further added to the optimistic feeling. The guests then enjoyed two panels highlighting a range of aspects to Moroccan-Israeli business potential, from agrotech to banking to academic cooperation.
After a networking lunch, the Israeli and Moroccan business leaders moved directly to Business to Business meetings. The Moroccan delegation included representatives of some 80 leading Moroccan companies from the automotive and aviation industries, food and beverages, chemical industry products and more.
The Israel Manufacturers Association, the Association of Chambers of Commerce, the Israeli Export Institute, CGEM partnered with the Ministries of Economy and Industry, Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation to organize the conference.
Distinguished guests at the event included Dr. Ron Tomer, Chairman of the Presidents of Employers and Businesses and President of the Israel Manufacturers Association; Adv. Uriel Lin, President of the Association of Chambers of Commerce, Morocco-Israel Business Council head Mr. Steve Ohana; Ayelet Nachmias - Verbin, Chairman of the Export Institute; Ohad Cohen, Director of the Foreign Trade Administration; Sabine Segal & Alain Mendoza from the Israel Export Institute; Henrique Cymerman & Dr. Nirit Ofir from the Israel Gulf Cooperation Council Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Gabriel Traub & Hadar Shor from the Ministry of Economy & Industry; Dan Catarivas, Director General – Foreign Trade and International Relations at the Manufacturers Association of Israel; Zeev Lavie from Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce; David Kenan President of the Marrakesh Federation; Gabriel Hayon Chairman of the Diplomat Institute; Matias Schapiro, President of the Chamber of Commerce Israel-Spain, and Ambassador Yitzhak Eldan, President of the Ambassador’s Club; Brigadier General Avraham "Avi" Benayahu, former Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson .
Steven Aiello
Founder--DebateforPeace
Photos Silvia G. Golan
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