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- Written by Silvia Golan & Steven Aiello
On Tuesday evening, October 9, the Korean embassy in Israel celebrated its national day, with a festive reception at the Embassy in Herzliya. The evening celebrated past and present Korean achievements, marking Korea’s national day with traditional Korean food, a display of Samsung innovations, and a dance performance that mixed the past with the contemporary.
Korean singer Lee DamJi opened the evening by performing the national anthems of both Israel and the Republic of Korea.
H.E. Mr. Choi Yong-hwan then welcomed the guests to Embassy, noting that this year marks 70 years for both Israel and Korea as modern states. The ambassador pointed out that during those 70 years, relations between North and South Korea have been up and down. The ambassador expressed his optimism in light of recent diplomatic developments between the governments of North and South Korea and emphasized his hope for a peaceful future for the Korean peninsula, as well as for Israel.
Ambassador Choi Yong-hwan emphasized the link between Israel and Korea in having robust democracies and market economies, which have led both countries to flourish in the last 70 years. This has also led to closer ties since diplomatic relations between the two countries was established in 1962. The ambassador noted that Korean car-producers (Hyundai and Kia) have been the top two in new car sales in Israel for the last three years, along with the popularity of Samsung and LG phones and other appliances. Acknowledging Israeli technological innovation as well, the ambassador recognized the Korea-Israel Industrial R&D Foundation (KORIL-RDF) for its success in raising $57 million in joint funding for R&D projects, as well as a Free Trade Agreement, now in its final stage, that is expected to increase Israeli-Korean economic cooperation even more.
Moving to the cultural side, the ambassador mentioned the annual K-pop contest, now in its 7th year, which is attended by Israeli fans of Korean music. He pointed out that Neta Barzilai, Israel’s Eurovision winner this year, had in fact been inspired by K-pop music with her own winning Eurovision entry. Noting many more opportunities for cultural sharing, such as food and cosmetics, the ambassador cited a Korean expression, which translates to “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”
Minister of Regional Cooperation Tsachi Hanegbi spoke on behalf of the Israeli government. The minister noted that although the countries are geographically far, they are close in many other ways, with shared values and similar stories of perseverance over adversity.
The minister reiterated the success of both Korean and Israeli technological innovation, of free trade between the two nations, and of joint technological research ventures. He also remarked upon the rise in tourism, with a 20% increase in Korean visits to Israel in the last year. Finally, minister Hanegbi noted the cooperation between the two countries in the area of national security and military defense technology. The minister finished his remarks by offering congratulations, and his blessings for peace and prosperity in Korea.
Following the speeches, guests enjoyed a contemporary dance performance, itself a collaboration between an Israeli and Korean dancer, who acted out a traditional Korean fairy tale. Traditional Korean dishes were then served for dinner.
Along with numerous members of the Israeli and international diplomatic corps, the distinguished guests in attendance included Major General (Res.) and former ambassador Matan Vilnai;Honorary Consul of France Nathalie Mimoun; Ambassador Yitzhak Eldan, head of the Israeli Center for Young Leaders and the Israel School for Young Ambassadors; Ambassador Meron Reuven, Chief of Protocol for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Dr. Lihi Yariv-Laor, former head of the department of Asian studies at Hebrew University (which offers Israel’s only BA in Korean studies);Ehud Rassabi, Chairman of the Board of Ilan, the Israel Foundation for Handicapped Children; Samsung Managing Director Koh and business manager Daniel Rhee, and Dan Crivolotti of YONACO - Korea business experts.
Diplomacy.co.il offers congratulations to the embassy of the Republic of Korea on this important anniversary, and best wishes for years of peace and prosperity.
Photo Silvia Golan
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- Written by Silvia G Golan
The President of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela, has arrived in Israel in order to reinforce the economic relations between the two countries. During the visit, a bilateral free-trade agreement will be signed for the first time between Panama and Israel. This is the first agreement of its kind to be signed by Israel with any country in Latin America.
During his visit, President Varela will be accompanied by the Vice President of Panama, Isabel Saint Malo, Augusto Arosemena, the Minister of Commerce & Industry; the Minister of Agriculture Development, Enrique Charles, as well as a delegation of businessmen.
A special economic event held at the Hilton Hotel in Tel Aviv, at the invitation of the President of Panama, for the purpose of exposing Panama to investments. Panama's Ambassador to Israel, Mrs. Adis Urieta Vega, advised that among the subjects which were presented at the Conference are: cyber protection, tourism, medical devices, clean technology, and water.
The president of Panama, H.E. Mr. Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez, visited Israel for several high-level meetings, and to advance diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two nations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with President Varela at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. They held both a private meeting and an expanded meeting with their entourages. During the meetings, the following were signed:
* A bilateral free trade agreement – The agreement will lift restrictions on trade between Israel and Panama, in both directions, and enable free trade.
* A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on establishing a center for agricultural excellence in Panama. Israel will establish in Panama a center that will combine Israeli technologies and training. This would be the first such center in Latin America and is expected to significantly assist agriculture in Panama.
During his visit, President Varela visited Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, toured the Holocaust History Museum, participated in a memorial ceremony in the Hall of Remembrance, visited the Children's Memorial, and signed the Yad Vashem Guest Book.
As a guest of the Keren Kayemet Le’Israel-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), President Varela planted a tree in the Grove of Nations in Jerusalem as part of his first official visit to Israel. President Varela also requested the help of KKL-JNF in order to plant a forest the size of “one million hectares”in Panama, utilizing the professional knowledge and international experience KKL-JNF holds in the field of forestation.
In addition, President Varela and his wife Mrs. Lorena Castilla de Varela joined Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and his wife Nehama for a dinner in their honor at the President’s residence.
Panama is located in the center of the American continent, which makes this a strategic location. Panama has a sophisticated banking system, has had a fully-dollarized economy (since 1904), a sympathetic government and extensive trade relations with the entire continent. It is considered to be the Latin investment capital. The expansion of the Canal and the establishment of the Diamond Exchange in the country – are opening up business opportunities in these areas as well. Panama has the second largest free-trade zone in the world.
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
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- Written by Jonathan Danilowitz
Celebrating the King of Thailand.
Culturally, Thailand and Israel are worlds apart. But there is so much in Thai art, music, food and nature that Israelis appreciate and enjoy. Thus the Thai atmosphere in the Grand Ballroom of Tel Aviv’s Hilton Hotel last Thursday was especially appealing and welcoming. The cream of Thai and Israeli society gathered to celebrate and congratulate His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 88th birthday, a day also recognized and observed as Thailand’s National Day. Beautiful traditional Thai décor, including baskets of flowers and multicolored decorated and sculpted fruits, Thai silk flowers, and Thai musicians brought especially from Thailand, welcomed and delighted the guests. Cocktails and snacks, including imported Thai beer were served before the formal speeches and dinner. Thailand in Tel Aviv!
Guests included many ambassadors and diplomats, not to mention government, society and business leaders. Amongst others were Dov Kalmann, representative of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in Israel, Zvi Gur of El Al Israel Airlines, Asher Roseman of Roseman & Co., and of course, Naomi Hurvitz, Chief Executive and owner of the luxurious Sheva Thai Spa at the Hilton Hotel.
Her Excellency Ambassador Angsana Sihapitak addressed the gathering. In her opening remarks she welcomed the guests and noted that: “His Majesty is the world’s longest-reigning monarch and has reigned over the Kingdom of Thailand for almost 70 years. The name Bhumibol Adulyadej means ‘strength of the land, the incomparable power’. He is the riveting and unifying power of the Thai nation”. The Ambassador paid tribute to His Majesty, his achievements, his work for the good of the people, also pointing out that as a constitutional monarch he is above politics for the betterment of all.
Ambassador Angsana Sihapitak gave a brief overview of Thailand’s political empowerment as a member of ASEAN and other important alliances in S.E. Asia. She continued: “For our bilateral relations with Israel, we appreciate the stance of the Israeli government for their constructive gesture and understanding. Thailand & Israel have enjoyed the excellent relationship in all aspects throughout the sixty years of diplomatic relations (that we celebrated last year).
“The Thai-Israel Friendship Foundation was established in 1985, under the Royal Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Mahachakri Sirindhorn who visited Israel in 1977 accompanied by Her Royal younger sister Princess Chulabhorn, to promote a long-lasting friendship and cultural exchange. In 1996 a Thai Pavilion was built in Modi’in Park, situated near the site of “Thailand-Israel Friendship Grove” where over a thousand trees were planted by the Friendship Foundation earlier in 1989, to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the throne.”
In conclusion, she proposed a toast to the good health and happiness of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and to the long lasting friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the State of Israel.
The Thai musicians then played the Thai National Anthem.
On behalf of the State of Israel, the government and the people of Israel, Knesset Member Mr. Miki Zohar responded. First, he warmly congratulated His Majesty the King, and continued: “This year we mark the 61st anniversary of the diplomatic relations between our countries. We look forward to continuing the pace of work and cooperation in a variety of fields. We have already held many events both in Thailand and in Israel, and more are yet to come.”
The Minister mentioned several cooperative projects, and then moved on to tourism: “Over 150,000 Israelis visit Thailand each year. El Al Israel Airlines operates a daily flight, and sometimes even twice a day, between Tel Aviv and Bangkok. Your country is the leading Asian tourist destination for the Israelis.
“Madam Ambassador, please convey our warm congratulations to your government and to the Thai People on the occasion of your National Day. May Thailand enjoy peace and prosperity, and may the ties of friendship and cooperation between Israel and Thailand become even stronger in the years ahead.”
Then too, the musicians played the Israeli National Anthem.
A lavish buffet dinner followed, but not before a striking display of traditional Thai dancing by professionals in Thai national dress. The grace and beauty delivered a note of Thai culture to the Israeli audience, and, we feel sure, a sense of well-being of “at home” for the Thai guests. The Thai musicians also played a striking version of the popular Israeli melody, “Hava Nagila”.
Yes, strong ties exist between Thailand and Israel.
Photos Silvia G Golan
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- Written by Jonathan Danilowitz
Kazakhstan Independence Day in Israel
Kazakh and Russian have equal status as national languages in the Republic of Kazakhstan, and were clearly the dominant languages among the elegant guests at the reception hosted by His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Doulat Kuanyshev, and Mrs. Gulmira Mamytbayeva, at the David Intercontinental Hotel in Tel Aviv last Thursday.
The hotel ballroom was decorated with Kazakh themes, including at the entrance a beautiful cake adorned by the country’s flag. Guests from Israel’s diplomatic corps, Kazakh society, Israeli VIPs and others had ample opportunity to greet and meet as drinks were served. Among the special guests were M.K. Sofa Landver (Minister of Immigrant Absorption), Ambassador Shlomo Morgan (Israeli Foreign Ministry), Ehud Olmert (former Prime Minister), Hezi Bezalel ( businessman and honorary consul of Rwanda), Yair A. Stern (Director General, Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra) and Stella Yudko (concert producer).
After the ceremonial part of the evening the guests were treated to a range of exotic entertainments by Kazakh musicians, dancers and singers. Flowing costumes, mysterious melodies, and unusual musical instruments all made for interesting performances.
His Excellency Ambassador Kuanyshev opened his address to the guests with a very warm welcome to all who came to honor the Republic of Kazakhstan on its national day celebrations. He made special mention of the guests of honor who graced the occasion: Avi Gabai, Minister of Environmental Protection of the State of Israel; Michael Brodsky, Ambassador-designate of the State of Israel in the Republic of Kazakhstan; Ambassador Meron Reuben, Ambassador Zvi Rav-Ner; and Olzhas Suleymenov, writer and poet, who was for many years ambassador of Kazakhstan to UNESCO. The Ambassador spoke of the economic spheres is his country, diversification of the economy and improving the economic climate. “On the personal note, for me this was the first year working in Israel. In this connection I would like to thank for the support and sympathy from Israelis, allowing me quickly get accustomed here and to feel so at home.”
He continued: “I would like to express special gratitude to my Israeli compatriots repatriated from Kazakhstan, and also to all compatriots from the former Soviet Union. We celebrated the 70th anniversary of Great Victory together with them. I am also glad to meet with those Israelis whose ancestors were not the citizens of the USSR, but who had to be evacuated to the Kazakh land during World War II. They comprise refugees from such countries as Poland, Romania, etc. Their children and grandchildren built Israel, but they remember those who saved the lives of their grandparents.
“In 2015 our relations were heightened. We hope to conduct a series of important bilateral events next year. They include the 7th session of Inter-Governmental Commission, signing of the convention on avoiding of double taxation. We also look forward to the visit of the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, to Kazakhstan. In this context, we hope to bring commercial and economic cooperation and tourist and cultural connections between our countries to a new level. Also we expect to solve two key issues: visa-free trips and restarting of direct air links.
“In conclusion, I would like to thank again our guests for their warm congratulations on the occasion of the Independence Day.” The ambassador sent his warm greeting to the people of Israel for the Chanukah holiday.
In responding on behalf of the Government and the State of Israel and its people, Minister Avi Gabai thanked the Ambassador and sent warm greetings to the President of Kazakhstan its people of their anniversary.
“When Israel and Kazakhstan established diplomatic relations between them in 1992, a cornerstone was laid for close and important relations which developed and expanded with the passing of time. Israel was among the first countries to recognize the independence of Kazakhstan. Over more than two decades, the strong relations between the two countries have been based on mutual respect, common values and close cooperation.
“The broad and deep cooperation between the peoples and the states encompasses many fields: political, economic, cultural, academic interreligious, tourism, development issues etc. … The deepening of the cooperation in those areas was discussed and advanced during the political dialogue between Israel and Kazakhstan last month in Jerusalem.
“We will forever remember and be grateful to the Kazakh people for the shelter and salvation they provided to thousands of Jews who fled for their lives from the horrors of the Holocaust.
“Mr. Ambassador, allow me to thank you personally for your efforts to promote the relations between our two nations. Please convey to President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan our warm greetings on the occasion of 24 years of your independence. May the future bring with it prosperity to your country and a strengthening of the links of friendship between Israel and Kazakhstan.
Long live the friendship between Israel and Kazakhstan.”
The event took place during the Jewish Festival of Lights – Chanukah. The hosts graciously invited religious authorities to be present with the traditional nine-branched chandelier / candelabrum. In a moving ceremony, the correct number of candles was lit, with an honor of lighting accorded to His Excellency the Ambassador, while the appropriate blessings were recited. A tradition of thousands of years.
A fine buffet dinner accompanied the entertainment that followed.
Photo by Mark krugliak
- Details
- Written by Jonathan Danilowitz
Romania Celebrates its National Day in Israel
The grand lobby of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art was the scene of an elegant gathering of the Israeli Diplomatic corps and other VIPs on Monday evening on the occasion of the National Day of Romania. The event was hosted by her Excellency Ambassador Andreea Păstârnac, the Romanian Embassy and the Romanian Cultural Institute. “Bine aţi venit” (welcome) was the heading on the video above the podium, and indeed, the large Romanian-society presence plus Ambassadors, diplomats and other VIPs felt warmly welcomed. Among the guests were Shlomo Keidar, board member, and Micha Harish, chairman, of A.M.I.R. – the roof organization of Romanian immigrants to Israel; Knesset member Prof. Yossie Yonah; Dr. Rosalie Sitman, head of Tel Aviv University’s Foreign Languages Division; Michail Terzimpasis, Director of the Greek National Tourism Organization in Israel; Nico Nitai, Manager & Artistic Director of Tel Aviv’s Karov Theater; Meron Reuben, Israel’s Chief of State Protocol; Ambassador Shlomo Morgan of the Israeli Foreign Ministry; and Baldi Olier, Romanian-born flamenco guitarist described by “The Jerusalem Post” as Israel's undisputed king of flamenco.
Guests enjoyed a buffet of snacks while mingling and renewing friendships and making new ones. Besides soft and other drinks, a range of fine Romanian wines was on offer, including Nomad Feteasca Neagra 2009 and several crisp whites. Large companies, Romanian and Israeli, added their cache to the event, proving sponsorships and support, TAROM being the major sponsor. Others included the Ben Haim and Carmel Wineries, Sixt, Sano, Elbit Systems, Bank Leumi, Ophir Tours and more.
After a brief introduction, the Romanian singer, actor and entertainer Sofia Vicoveanca presented haunting Romanian folklore songs. Ambassador Andreea Păstârnac then addressed the gathering, as usual, in her fluent Hebrew. She welcomed the guests who had joined in to celebrate her country’s National Day. “On December 1st 1918, in the aftermath of the Great War, the Great Union was accomplished. This year, today, on this occasion, I would like to mention the role of the Jewish soldiers, who fought shoulder to shoulder with the Romanian soldiers, in order to fulfil the national dream… their courage will be always remembered.”
“Terrorism has no borders and creates victims all over the world, here, in Europe, in France, Belgium and in other countries. Unfortunately, terrorism strikes in Israel too, and I convey my condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the victims. Since its inception as a state, Israel paid and will continue to pay a heavy price in the fight against terrorism. Romania too faces difficult times. We are all aware of the tragedy that occurred during the concert in the “Colectiv” club, where 60 young people died. There were debates about the way the Romanian society responds to this kind of challenge.” The gathering then responded to her call for a minute’s silence “ …. in memory of the victims in Bucharest and for the victims of terrorism.”
“It is in our nature to remember close friends. When the tragedy occurred, Israel was the first country who sent help in Romania. Together with the doctors, skin for transplants and a cream-drug to help faster recovery from burns were brought to Romania. Hadassah and Tel Ha’shomer hospitals received three wounded Romanians, but unfortunately, one of them died in Hadassah. Today, we have good news regarding the other two wounded treated at Tel Ha’shomer. We send them our best wishes and we hope they will be able to return home soon. Our most heartfelt thanks to you.”
Ambassador Păstârnac then introduced some of the Israeli medical teams that had responded so courageously; Dr. Shoham Yaron, Dr. Nimrod Parver, Dr. Monica Sandu, Prof. David Linton and others. “We would also like to thank Dr. Herman Bercovici, Honorary Consul of Romania to the State of Israel and the personal doctor of the Israeli Prime Minister, who spared no efforts to assemble the help needed and send it to Romania.”
On a lighter note the Ambassador spoke of the Romanian wine culture and its implications for viticulture in Israel. A most pleasing connection.
Israel’s Minister of Health, Yaakov Litzman, responded: “I am pleased and honored to represent the Government and the people of Israel in congratulating Romania on the occasion of its National Day. Israel values the very good and special relations existing between our two countries since the creation of the State. Romania is the only country of the former Eastern Bloc that maintained its diplomatic relations all along this period.
“We welcome the close cooperation between us in the political strategic economic and cultural fields. Both countries are willing to expand this cooperation for the benefit of all.
“Israel highly appreciates the support of the Romanian Government to the Jewish community in Romania and also its support Holocaust-related issues and the fight against anti-Semitism. In this context, Israel congratulates Romania on assuming the Chairmanship of IHRA (International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance) in 2016. The 400,000 strong community of Israelis originating in Romania has made a very important contribution to the building of the State and they serve as an additional bridge in the relationship between both our countries.
“Finally I wish to congratulate the Ambassador of Romania and her staff for their vigorous activity to promote the relations between the two countries and peoples. To conclude, Madam Ambassador, please convey to the President of Romania, its Government and its People our best wishes for your National Day. May Romania enjoy stability and prosperity and may the relations of friendship between Israel and Romania continue to expand and flourish in the years to come.”
Photos : Silvia G. Golan
