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- Written by Silvia G. Golan & Steven Aiello
The Embassy of Italy in Israel held a National Day celebration Wednesday night in honor of Festa Della Reppublica, the anniversary of Italy reforming as a republic in 1946. The event was hosted by H.E. Ambassador Gianluigi Benedetti, and his wife Mrs. Sabina D'Antonio Benedetti at the ambassador’s residence in Ramat Gan. As Israel has gradually emerged from Covid-19 restrictions, this was one of the first celebrations to be held, and the atmosphere was understandably joyful.
Opening the evening, Ambassador Benedetti paid tribute to the medical staff and researchers who worked tirelessly to keep people healthy, and develop a vaccine in unprecedented time. He quoted the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, about the importance of unity during these challenging times. In that regard, the ambassador noted specifically the medical and scientific cooperation between Israeli and Italian hospitals and scientific researchers.
Ambassador Benedetti talked about the strong relationship between Israel and Italy on a range of topics, and a shared commitment to safety, stability, and economic prosperity in the Mediterranean region. The ambassador talked about Italy’s strong support for building peace, in particular after the recent conflict with Hamas. Ambassador Benedetti also highlighted the East Mediterranean Gas Forum and EastMed projects, and the overall complementarity of the Israeli and Italian economies. He also mentioned cultural cooperation such as art exhibitions, and the contributions of the Jewish community in Italy.
The ambassador made a point to highlight the fight against global anti-semitism and all forms of discrimination. He also congratulated the newly elected President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, and spoke warmly of the outgoing president Reuven Rivlin. The ambassador then acknowledged the recent tragedy of the Jewish family who died in a cable car crash in Italy, calling each victim by name. As this will be the last celebration held before Ambassador Benedetti leaves his position, he finished his remarks by thanking embassy staff, diplomatic peers and Israeli counterparts for the warm hospitality and support over the last four years.
Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz spoke on behalf of the government of Israel. Minister Steinitz talked about the beauty of Italy, in his mind the top tourist destination in all of Europe. Noting the historical Israel-Italy ties, including the San Remo conference that played a key role in the founding of Israel. Minister Steinitz then highlighted the energy cooperation between the nations. Thanking the ambassador for his service, he wished him well in his next placement, and promised that “you won’t forget us and we won’t forget you.”
Following the speeches, the anthems of Italy, the European Union, and Israel were played, and a toast was raised. Food stands offered guests fresh pasta, piping hot Pizza Margherita, and chocolates from the renowned Ferrero confectionery company, with Pellegrino sparkling water and Aperol Spritz as imported beverages of choice. The residence grounds were decorated in Italy’s national colors of green, white and red, with a trio of Vespa motorcycles adding to the ambience.
Among the many distinguished guests in attendance were H.E. Ms. Colette Avital, former Israeli Ambassador to Portugal, and the first woman to run for president of Israel; H.E. Mr. Dan Gillerman, former Israeli Ambassador to the UN;H.E. Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Mr. Oded Ben Hur, former Israeli Ambassador to the Vatican; Msgr. Tomasz Grysa, First Counsellor at the Apostolic Nunciature in Israel; Tzachi Braverman, cabinet secretary in the , Adi Barouh Prime Minister’s Office, Eliav Blizowsky, Director of International Relations at the Tel Aviv Municipality; Dr. Roberto Della Rocca, Vice Presidente of the Israel-Italy Chamber of Commerce; Superintendent Moti Meiry of the Israeli Police, and Dr. Cinzia Klein, Ms. Sabrina G. Fadlun, Delegate and Vice Delegate of the Italian Academy of Cuisine in Israel. Among the companies and businesses supporting the celebration were Cafe Landwer, Ferrero Rocher, and Pasta Rummo.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the Embassy of Italy, the Government and the people of Italy on this anniversary and thanks Ambassador Benedetti for his hard work strengthening the Israeli-Italian relationship over the last four years.
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook: Israel Diplo https://www.facebook.com/
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- Written by Spokesperson of the President's Office
Photo: President Rivlin with Ambassador of China H.E. Mr. Cai Run
.President of Israel Reuven (Ruvi) Rivlin on Wednesday 21 April / 9 Iyyar, received diplomatic credentials from the new ambassadors of the People’s Republic of China and of Japan to the State of Israel in an official ceremony at Beit HaNasi. The national anthems of each country were played by the Israel Police Band and the newly-appointed ambassadors reviewed an IDF honor guard. After presenting their letters of credence to the president, each ambassador signed the Beit HaNasi visitors’ book.
The first to present his credentials to the president was HE Ambassador Cai Run of China. The president said, “China is a key partner in our international relations, and we look forward to marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between our countries next year.” The president spoke about the Iranian threat, noting, “Iran’s nuclear development and it’s proxy in Lebanon, Hezbollah, are a significant threat to our region. The State of Israel will do everything required to protect its citizens and its borders, and the free world must make it clear to the Iranians that they will not accept its threats to annihilate Israel.”
Ambassador Cai Run thanked the president, saying, “Despite the pandemic, our relations are still growing with some momentum, and I will do all I can to strengthen them even further. As we approach 30 years of diplomatic relations, there is a growth of 20% in Israel-China trade We would like to welcome you to China, where your warm words are received with great thanks.”
Photo: President Rivlin with Ambassador of Japan H.E. Mr. Mizushima Koichi
The president then received HE Ambassador Mizushima Koichi of Japan and said “The economic ties and bilateral investments between our country have grown considerably in recent years, and it is vital to promote the free trade agreement between us. Signing the agreement would be a wonderful way to mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.”
The ambassador conveyed the good wishes of the Emperor in light of the challenges of the coronavirus, saying, “Israel was one of the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Japan at the end of the Second World War, and we are deeply grateful for that and for assistance after the earthquake. We believe that human-to-human relations are the most significant factor in ensuring that relations between countries flourish, and I will work in that spirit in this role.”
Photo credit: Mark Neyman (GPO)
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- Written by HIT
Remembrance Day Ceremony for Martyrs and Heroes of the Holocaust and Digital exhibition ′′ To Tell the Story Together ". Event that was hosted by HIT Holon institute of technology in cooperation with Mr. Dan Oryan, Israeli Ambassador to North Macedonia and Director of the Balkan Department at Israeli Foreign Ministry.
The HIT Commemoration event and digital exhibition were the culmination of long fruitful partnership in Innovation Technology Actions under Ambassdor Oryan leadership that HIT is partner in cooperation with ′′ Yad Vashem, Bar Ilan University, Azrieli College, Music4life, Word Zionist st Org, ARHAM, Acta non verba . Those important event and digital exhibition again help us to keep the memory trough new innovative ways instead of sand Parallel with March of the Living we the Ambassador Oryan and Dr.Levy-Drummer organized each year in Bitila-Monastir, North Macedonia. The other great moment in the event was HIT President Prof. Eduard Yakubov speech where he tell as about the courage of those Central Asia countries Uzbekistan, Kazakstan, etc, that opened their doors and hard for Jews during the IIWW.
On the occasion of Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Holon Institute of Technology presented a special exhibition to preserve the memory of the Jewish community of Northern Macedonia. On April 8, Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Holon Institute of Technology (HIT) hosted a Memorial ceremony and the launching of a digital exhibition in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of the annual Holocaust memorial days.
The event focused on the special story of the Northern Macedonian community, a small community that was almost entirely destroyed in the Holocaust. 7,144 members of the community from the city of Bitola did not return from the Treblinka death camp to which they were sent in March 1943. This meant the loss of nearly the entire Macedonian Jewish community. In recent years, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been leading special efforts to tell the story of this community with the help of a series of initiatives such as coordinated programs for youth from Israel, Germany and northern Macedonia, exhibitions, poetry events and more.
The new digital exhibition was produced by the HIT in partnership with Shlomi Amsalem who curated the original photography exhibition "Memory from its 2019 cancellation", which is at the heart of the new initiative.
The event was organized and led by H. E. Mr. Dan Oryan, Israeli Ambassador to Northern Macedonia and Director of the Balkan Department at the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mrs. Tony Duchev-levy Director External Relations Manager of HIT the Holon Institute of Technology .
Among the special guests who told their story at the event were Yitzhak Adiges, the well-known manager who told his personal and moving story via Zoom; "Dr. Rachel Levy Drummer, the head of the Association for Memorializing the Jews of Bitola, who shared her own personal story; Professor Edward Yaakobov, the President and CEO of the Holon Institute of Technology, who talked about the Jewish history of Europe and Central Asia, and Israeli Ambassador to Northern Macedonia Dan Oryan, who added that: " The Foreign Ministry attaches great importance to the war on anti-Semitism and to preserving the memory of the Holocaust. The special connection in the exhibition and in the joint activity with the HIT is an innovative collaboration. Together, these things create a language that allows the young generation in Israel and around the world to bring the issue closer. "
The guests also enjoyed a performance by the Music4Life band headed by Mrs. Oprah Cohen.
You are cordially invited to see the exhibition at the following link : "Tell the story together" - https://hit-vitrina.webflow.
Photos Silvia G. Golan
More pics at Facebook " Israel Diplo"
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- Written by Spokesperson of the President's Office
Photo President Rivlin with the first Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Israel Mohamed Mahmoud Fateh Ali Al Khaja
President Rivlin hosted the traditional annual reception for the diplomatic and consular corps in Israel, for the last time in his term of office
President Rivlin:
“Alongside countries who are interested in peace, there are still nations and terror organizations who threaten our very existence. Iran threatens the peace and stability in the Middle East and in the entire world. It is playing a dangerous game that could lead to a fire that could get out of control. We will not accept threats to destroy Israel and will do everything we can to stop those who wish to harm us. The attempt to accuse Israel in the International Criminal Court will not succeed. We will fight for justice, and we will win.”
In honor of Israel’s 73rd Independence Day, Yom Haatzmaut, President of Israel Reuven (Ruvi) Rivlin today, Thursday 15 April / 3 Iyyar, hosted the traditional annual reception for the diplomatic and consular corps in Israel, for the last time in his term of office.
“Over the last years, during my travels abroad and here in Jerusalem, I have had the honor of meeting many world leaders. I have always found a great sense of friendship and appreciation for the State of Israel, for its vibrant democracy, our cultural diversity, and cutting-edge innovation,” said the president, thanking the diplomats for coming to celebrate Israel’s national day.
Our nations share the values of democracy and freedom as well as a strong stance against racism and anti-Semitism. I know we have many friends, real friends, and you the diplomatic corps are the heart of our strong bilateral relations, said the president, noting the commitment of leaders around the world to Holocaust remembrance and the strong message against antisemitism that was sounded last January in the gathering to mark the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, held at Beit HaNasi and at Yad Vashem. He added that cooperation became even more important with the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, adding that only by working responsibly and in will we be able to overcome it and that the State of Israel is willing to share its knowledge and experience to help these efforts.
“I am proud to say that Israel is, and must always be, a Jewish and democratic State,” said the president, adding that being a Jewish state means ensuring it will be a safe home for all Jewish people all around the world and that being a democratic state means ensuring that all Israelis enjoy equal rights and freedom, freedom of religion and worship.
Photo President Rivlin with the Ambassador-designate of Morocco to Israel Abed al-Rahim
The president welcomed the presence of the ambassador of the United Arab Emirates for the first time at the reception, saying, “Alongside countries who are interested in peace, there are still nations and terror organizations who threaten our very existence. In light of these threats, the State of Israel must defend itself and its citizens. It is not just our right to defend our citizens, it is our obligation.
These days Iran threatens the peace and stability in the Middle East and in the entire world. It is playing a dangerous game that could lead to a fire that could get out of control. We will not accept threats to destroy Israel and will do everything we can to stop those who wish to harm us. Israel is a country which, unfortunately, knows terror. We have fought terror, and we have defeated the terrorists. The attempt to accuse Israel in the International Criminal Court will not succeed. We will fight for justice, and we will win, because we are on the right side in this matter.
On this Independence Day we also celebrate the new spirit of peace that is spreading through the Middle East. The rapidly growing people-to-people ties show that the way forward towards peace is by developing people-to-people partnerships and win-win cooperation, rather than by attacking Israel in international institutions. My hope and prayer is that this circle of people-to-people peace will continue to expand, including with our Palestinian neighbors,” said the president adding his blessings for Ramadan Kareem to Israel’s Muslim citizens and to Muslims all around the world, and concluded his remarks by saying “Chag Atzmaut Sameach! Long live the State of Israel!”
Photo credits: Haim Zach (GPO)
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- Written by Silvia
President Rivlin received diplomatic credentials from the first Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the State of Israel
President Rivlin:
“The entire Israeli people welcomes you with joy. This will be your most important mission – to welcome the hands reaching out to you, to meet the Israeli people and to get to know them up close. Treaties are signed by leaders, but real, sustained peace is made between peoples, face to face.”
President of Israel Reuven (Ruvi) Rivlin today, Monday 1 March / 17 Adar, received diplomatic credentials from the first Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the State of Israel, Mohamed Mahmoud Fateh Ali Al Khaja. The ambassador presented his letter of credence on assuming his role as ambassador to the State of Israel, in an official ceremony in the Hall of Beit HaNasi.
During the ceremony the national anthems of both countries were played by the Band of the IDF. The ambassador reviewed an IDF honor guard, reduced in size because of the coronavirus restrictions, and signed the Beit HaNasi guest book. The president and the ambassador then delivered joint statements and held a working meeting.
“Ahlan wa’Sahlan, Siyadat a-saphir! Marhaba bikum fi-Yerushalayim, f‘il-Quds!,” the president welcomed the amabassador in Arabic, and said that he was happy to meet him and his delegation in Israel, in holy Jerusalem.
The president said it was a very moving occasion for him as President of Israel, but also a special moment for him as the son of Prof. Yosef Yoel Rivlin ז"ל, who dearly loved the Arabic language and the culture of the peoples of the region. He said, “My father’s life’s work was the translation of the Holy Quran in to Hebrew. My father’s house, not far from here in Jerusalem, was filled with Jewish, Muslim and Christian scholars, who learned from each other and imagined a future of partnership, mutual respect and peace between the sons and daughters of Abraham. In this home I learned that we, the people living here, were not doomed to live together, but destined to do so on this land, to build it, develop it and lead it to a time of peace and prosperity. “
We look in wonder at the oasis in the desert that you have created. The Emirati leadership has established, with wisdom, innovation and sense, a state that seeks peace, a hub for technology, economic development and tourism, a place that looks ahead. Our two countries share this ethos – a small people that wish to turn arid land into a blooming garden, against all odds.”
“We have nurtured the relations between us for some time, believing that if we waited patiently the time would come when we could take them one step further and deepen the friendship between us and make it public. Thanks to brave and wise leadership, we are fortunate enough to see this wonderful day when the Emirati flag flies beside the Israeli flag over Beit HaNasi, the home of the Israeli people.”
“You should know that not only I am moved. The entire Israeli people welcomes you with joy, and opens its arms to you to welcome you to us. And this, Mr. Ambassador, will be your most important mission – to welcome the hands reaching out to you, to meet the Israeli people and to get to know them up close. Treaties are signed by leaders, but real, sustained peace is made people to people, face to face. There are so many things we can do together, Israelis and Emiratis, to advance our peoples and the whole Middle East, to a time of regional cooperation, mutual respect, prosperity and peace.”
At the end of his remarks, the president wished the ambassador success on his mission and invited Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zaid to make a state visit to Israel and Jerusalem. “I wish you great success in building this bridgehead between our countries and our peoples. The doors of Beit HaNasi are always open to you. Ahalan wa’Sahlan bikum!”
Photo credit: Mark Neyman, GPO
