Diplomatic Events

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Written by Office of the President

Published: 10 December 2014

 Photo President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador of Angola, Mr. Feliciano Antonio Dos Santos

Newly appointed ambassadors to Israel presented their diplomatic credentials today (Wednesday) to President Reuven Rivlin, at an official ceremony at the President's Residence. Each noted their desire to strengthen ties between their own countries and Israel, and to promote partnership and cooperation.

Incoming Ambassador of Angola, Mr. Feliciano Antonio Dos Santos, thanked the President and said, "Israel has played an important and significant role in assisting infrastructure and agricultural development in Angola, and we are benefiting from the experience and understanding which you bring in these fields. I have been asked to take action to strengthen and deepen the relationship between our countries, and to promote cultural partnerships. We hope that with your help, my time here will be most productive."

President Rivlin warmly welcomed the Ambassador and said, "Angola has a central role in Africa; your economy is an example to many states around the world. Between our countries, we share excellent relations, of importance to both sides. We are impressed by your progress in the area of water and agriculture, and successful use of natural resources. I am pleased to welcome you to Israel."

 Photo President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador of the Philippines, Mr. Nathaniel Imperial

 The incoming Ambassador of the Philippines, Mr. Nathaniel Imperial said, "I am delighted and honored to serve my country in the holy land. The good will, which characterizes the relationship between our countries, began already in the late 1930's, when our President initiated the 'open door policy' for Jews fleeing persecution at the hands of the Nazis. We released many visas, and if it had not been for the war in the Pacific, I have no doubt that many more Jews would have found shelter in our state. This 'open door policy', was an expression of the solidarity between Israel and the Jewish People, and the Philippines. In Israel, there are many workers from my country, and they enjoy safe employment with good conditions, for which I am both grateful and very proud."

The President praised the good relations between the two countries and said to the Ambassador, "Two weeks ago, we commemorated the 29th of November, when the UN voted for the creation of a Jewish state, and we will never forget that you were the only Asian country to vote in favor. We appreciate and remember this fondly to this day. In Israel, there is a strong and vibrant community from your country, whose integration and contribution to Israeli society is evidenced by so much, including the success of a member of the community on a leading Israeli television talent show. There is a wonderful relationship between our countries, and we look forward to expanding it. It is a great pleasure for us to have you in Israel as a diplomat and as a renowned poet; I hope that your books will be translated into Hebrew so that we can all benefit from them."

 Photo President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador  from South Sudan to Israel, Mr. Ruben Marial Benjamin

For the first time, an Ambassador from South Sudan to Israel, Mr. Ruben Marial Benjamin, presented his credentials to the President. The Ambassador said, "I am happy to serve my country in Israel, and I have been sent here following the long and warm relations between us. We understand what it means to be in a long struggle, and Israel is an important friend who has helped us greatly and we appreciate this. I am happy to say that I feel at home in Israel."

The President responded, "I am excited to receive your appointment as the first ambassador from your country. We have much in common, we appreciate greatly the security ties between us, and see in South Sudan an important friend. On a personal note, I wanted to be a soccer player when I was a child, but sadly I wasn't good enough, and so I decided to be the president of my favorite club instead. I know that you are a good soccer player, and so I am happy to invite you to play and train in Jerusalem."

 Photo President Reuven Rivlin with  the Jamaican (non-resident) Ambassador to Israel, Mrs. Margaret Ann Louise Jobson

Lastly, the Jamaican (non-resident) Ambassador to Israel, Mrs. Margaret Ann Louise Jobson presented her credentials and said, "It is a great pleasure for me to serve as Ambassador to Israel. When I left Kingston they said to me that Israel is an important country for us. Jamaica has special bonds with Israel; the Jews of Jamaica were some of the earliest settlers to the island, and have contributed immensely to the economy and development. I believe there is a strong and sound basis to deepen our ties in the future."

The President responded by saying, "It is a pleasure to host you in Israel's capital, and to renew the presenting of credentials by the Ambassador of Jamaica. The relationship between our countries is excellent, and there is no doubt that your presence will help strengthen and deepen this bond." The President added in relation to the ambassador's status as a non-resident representative, "We will be happy to see you in Israel much more."

Photos  Credit Mark Neumann  

Details

Written by Silvia Golan

Published: 08 December 2014

 At the Hilton Hotel in Tel Aviv Thai Ambassador Boon-Long, his wife Kamolrat Boon-Long and embassy staff hosted a reception on December 3 celebrating 87th Birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand.

There were beautiful Thai traditions: baskets of flowers and multicolor fruits decorated and sculpted, and Thai musicians brought especially from Thailand welcomed and delighted the guests. Typical Thai food and Thai beer were served, and on display was a collection of traditional Thai women's clothing.

Guest of honor was Ms. Limor Livnat, Minister of Culture and Sport representing the Israeli government. Also present were Professor Yuli Tamir, president of Shenkar College and former Labor Party MK; President of the Diamond Exchange, Mr. Shlomo Eshet; Mayor of Herzliya Mr. Moshe Fadlon; numerous ambassadors and diplomats of foreign countries; representatives of the Israeli army and attachés of various embassies; as well as delegates of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and commercial sectors.

The event began with the Thai and Israeli national anthems played by the musicians, followed by Ambassador's warm welcome of the guests.

"Sawasdee krub (in Thai)

Good evening to everyone. I would like to express my deep appreciation for your present this evening.

It means so much to me, my wife and Thailand as we know that we have many dear friends who, despite their busy schedule, kindly join us in celebrating the most important day of our nation.

In Thailand, we celebrate the National Day on the occasion of the Birthday Anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. He is one of the greatest King and the longest reigning monarch in the world. And for Thai people, His Majesty is the sole of the nation and we love him dearly.

During his reign, His Majesty has devoted his time and effort to the development of the country. He has introduced several Royal projects to the Thai people by using his simple know-how techniques, just to help them live happy and prosperous life. These Royal projects touch on the livelihood and well-being of the Thai people such as "the rain making project" in the northeast where draught is always a problem., "the project on crops substitution", in the north for the hill-tribe people to give up producing opium and turn to growing cash crops instead, and "the project on irrigation" (Gam-Ling: Monkey's cheek), for water resource and flood management. These are only parts of the samples of the mentioned Royal projects of more than three thousand (3,000).

  In promoting the relation between Thailand and Israel, the Royal Thai Embassy determine to follow His Majesty's footstep by introducing Israelis expertise, experiences and the best practices to the Thai people, so they could improve their way of living and working, particularly in the field of agricultural advanced technology and medical science where we work closely with the Hadassa and Rambam Hospital. We also hope that with the promotion of the exchange business delegations, the investment and trade cooperation between two countries will be flourished in the near future.

Excellencies,
Distinguish Guests,

To let our Israeli friends learn more about Thailand, the Embassy have been promoting exquisite cultures of Thailand in Israel cities such as Jerusalem, Haifa, Beer Sheva, Nazareth and Tel Aviv. These cultures of Thai cuisine, classical dance and music, Muay Thai, will let our friends realize that Thailand has much more to offer to them, than just Samui, Pa-ngan or the famous Full-moon party.

As you can see now, the exhibition of Thai textile displays in this hall as well as at the Shenkar Institute aim at sharing with you our culture through weaving technique and pattern of textile.

This year marks the 60th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Israel. Each and every one of you is parts of this auspicious occasion. You have played an active role in promoting the relationships of the two countries and we wish you be a part of this noble task for years to come.

May I now invite all of you to join me in a toast for the good health and happiness of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand and the long lasting friendship between our two countries."

To the King".

Ms. Livnat responded on behalf of the State of Israel:

"Your Excellency the Ambassador of Thailand MR. JUKR and Mrs. Boon-Long,

Distinguished Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Missions in Israel, Honorable Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

"SA WAD DEE KA

I am pleased and honored to represent the Government and People of Israel at this joyous celebration of the 87th Birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
This evening is all the more special as it occurs during the year of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the State of Israel and the Kingdom of Thailand. Thailand was among the first countries to both recognize and maintain diplomatic relations with the State of Israel throughout the years, and our two nations have enjoyed an ever-warming friendship since our bilateral relations began.

To mark the occasion of this year's 60th anniversary, there have been numerous events in both Israel and Thailand celebrating Thai-Israeli friendship. We look forward to continuing this momentum and further improving our cooperation in a variety of fields in the coming years.

Thailand is a key member state of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and has one of the largest economies in Asia. Thailand will undoubtedly continue to play an increasingly important economic role in the region. Already, thanks to its vitality, Thailand is paving the way for the ASEAN Economic Community, which will enter into effect in 2015. We hope that this will help Israel to promote its own economic presence in Thailand and throughout the entire region.

Trade cooperation between us has already developed into a significant partnership. Last year, Thai-Israeli trade valued more than one billion dollars.

In addition, Israel has developed close collaborations with Thailand in many sectors, such as health-care. Cooperation between the Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, the Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, and the Chulabhorn Research Institute in Bangkok in the field of cancer research is a greatly valued area of partnership. We are deeply appreciative of Princess Chulabhorn's role in personally driving the development of this initiative.

Another significant area of collaboration between our countries is seen in the thousands of Thai citizens who come to Israel every year to work in the agricultural sector. These men and women play a very important role in the Israeli economy, and last year, almost 24,000 of them worked within Israel's borders.

The Thailand-Israel Employment Cooperation (TIC) Agreement, made in partnership with the International Organization of Migration (IOM), has helped fuel the historic agricultural cooperation between our countries. The first of its kind in the world, the Agreement has earned both nations esteem in the international community, and greatly benefits the agricultural workers that travel to Israel every year.

Israel is proud to have trained thousands of Thailand's citizens in agriculture and other areas through MASHAV, and remains committed to the well-being and protection of all Thai citizens working within Israel's borders. I would like to take this moment to express my thanks and appreciation to the thousands of Thai men and women who have shown incredible dedication to their work in Israel, even throughout the recent Operation Protective Edge.

Finally, let us also not forget that Thailand is the leading tourist destination in Asia for Israelis. Every year, tens of thousands of Israelis visit Thailand, and last year was no exception. More than 150,000 Israeli citizens travelled to Thailand last year, and El Al operates daily flights between Tel Aviv and Bangkok. This tourism plays a crucial role in the cultural exchanges between our two nations, in turn building new understanding between Thai and Israeli citizens alike.

Mr. Ambassador, please allow me to conclude by asking you to convey our best wishes to His Majesty the King of Thailand, and the Government and People of Thailand on your National Day. May Thailand continue to flourish, and the friendship between us continue to grow in the coming years.

KOB -KUN-KA
(THANK YOU)"

The warmth of the Ambassador's wife Mrs. Kamolrat and embassy staff added to the beautiful and exquisite celebration.

Photos Silvia G Golan

Details

Written by Sima Lahat & Silvia Golan

Published: 08 December 2014

On December 4th, 2014, the new Ambassador of Japan to Israel Mr. Shigeo Matsutomi and Mrs. Kaori Matsutomi offered a reception at their residence in Herzliya Pituach to celebrate the 81st Birthday. of His Majesty the Emperor (In Japan, the emperor is never referred to by his given name, but rather is referred to as "His Imperial Majesty the Emperor" which may be shortened to "His Imperial Majesty").

A lavish buffet dinner featuring Japanese dishes: Plates of delicious Sushi, delicious meats, vegetables, fruits, cakes, and even Kosher Food prepared for the religious Jews. The menu was accompanied by Sake, bear and a range of Liqueurs, alcoholic and other beverages. Sake has played a central role in Japanese life and culture for the past 2,000 years.

As we entered to the Ambassador's official residence, we were invited to participate at a Japanese tea ceremony. We loved the special taste of the Matcha Green Tea (a fine-ground, powdered, high-quality green tea).

The distinguished guest list included Dr. Yaacov Cohen - Former Israel Ambassador in Japan, Yehuda Meshi-Zahav, ZAKA Chairman (Disaster Victim Identification), Hezi Bezalel - One of the leading Israeli entrepreneurs operating in Africa, members of the diplomatic corps, business and commercial leaders, dignitaries of the Japanese community in Israel, Israeli political leaders and other "who's who" of the Israel social calendar.

The formal part of the event started with violinist playing the national anthems of both countries, followed by the speech of the Japanese Ambassador, welcoming the guests.

Ambassador Matsutomi thanked everyone, for participating in the celebration for the Birthday of His Majesty the Emperor. He welcomed the honorable guests of Israel government: Minister Ya'ir Shamir - Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Director-Generals, Ambassadors and all distinguished guests and said the following:

"His Majesty, Emperor Akihito, will observe his 81st birthday this month. The Emperor today still continues to play his role as the unifying figure of our nation.
Since arrival at Israel on August, my wife Kaori and I have been enjoying both exciting work and everyday life in Israel.
The year 2014 has been a good year. We have witnessed many high level exchanges in both political and economic fields.
I wish to build upon those achievements and thoroughly follow up each, even to do homework, so as to make the bilateral ties even closer.

Also in the Cultural field, Japanese artists, from modern ballets (contemporary dance) to even Sumo wrestlers, charmed Israeli people.
This October, "Japan Cultural Week" in Jerusalem alone attracted more than 7,000 visitors. In Japan, the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra fascinated thousands of Japanese in November at its annual performances.

In both countries we have now a season of elections. Prime Minister Abe is asking for a general election to be scheduled on 14th next week to ask the Japanese public about his economic policy (Abenomics).

In Israel, needless to say, March 17th. I believe our bilateral ties will not be affected by political developments anyway.
I'm determined to do my best to promote our bilateral ties together with our Embassy staff. I ask your cooperation for that.
In conclusion, I wish to propose a toast to the continued good health of Their Majesties as well as each one of you present here, and to an even more fruitful friendship between our two countries."

After the Ambassador's speech, Mr. Ya'ir Shamir - Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, said the following:

"Your Excellency the Ambassador of Japan and Mrs. Kaori Matsutami, Distinguished Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Missions in Israel, Honorable Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.

I am pleased and honored to represent the Government and People of Israel at this joyous celebration of the 81th Birthday of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito.

This year, Israel and Japan are marking the 62nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries. Japan was the first nation in Asia to establish formal relations with Israel, and Israel, in turn, was the first nation in the Middle East to establish diplomatic relations with Japan in 1952.

The bonds between our peoples extend beyond the founding of the State of Israel. Following the First World War, Japan took part in the in the San Remo Conference, in which the idea of self-determination for the Jewish people was formally approved. Years later, Vice Consul Chiune Sugihara saved the lives of thousands of Polish and Lithuanian Jews by providing them with exit visas to Kobe, Japan during World War Two, and today there are more than 40,000 descendants of these Jews living across the globe thanks Vice Consul Sugihara's courage.
Today, the special relationship between our peoples can be seen by the number of high-level visits between our governments. Notably, Prime Minister Netanyahu visited Japan in May, and together with Prime Minister Shinzō Abe released a joint statement celebrating the significant upgrading of bilateral relations between our countries.

Last June, Menachem Kidron, who serves as the Director of the Israel Space Agency in the Ministry of Science and Technology, also visited Japan. Mr. Kidron's meeting with his counterpart in the Japanese Government resulted in an agreement to strengthen the cooperation between our countries in research in the field of Space exploration.

In addition to two Japanese delegations that visited Israel last July, Israel was proud to welcome on separate visits Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Yoshitaka Shindō and Minister for Economy, Trade, and Industry Toshimitsu Motegi, whose visit culminated with the signing of an agreement of cooperation in industrial research and development.

And, speaking for myself, I was proud to have represented Israel in the prestigious Science and Technology in Society annual meeting in Kyoto last month.

This coming month, the annual political dialogue will take place in Tokyo, and Israel looks forward to continuing the ongoing fruitful cooperation that has developed between us.
Based on democratic values, hard work, and investments in education and research, Japan and Israel have both created strong and developed open societies for the benefit of all. In 2011, bilateral trade between our countries valued more than $1.7 billion, of which $1.1 billion was imported to Israel from Japan. Japanese businesses can be found throughout Israel, and I am especially pleased that companies like Sony, Hitachia, and Toshiba have Research and Development centers here.

Interest in Japanese culture is also taking hold throughout Israel. Across the country, thousands of students practice Judo and Karate, and many more study the Japanese language in High School and University. More and more Japanese books are being translated into Hebrew, and Sushi has become one of the most popular foods in Israel.

This interest in Japanese culture is also well illustrated by the success of Japanese Cultural week in Jerusalem just a few weeks ago. Organized by the embassy of Japan and in coordination with the City of Jerusalem and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this festival celebrated Japanese culture in Israel.

To the north in Haifa, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art stands as the only one of its kind in the Middle East. Israel is immensely proud of its partnerships with Japan, both cultural and economic, and looks forward to bettering relationships and building new ones in the years to come.

However, the value placed on friendship between two peoples is not only seen in times of joy and prosperity, but also in times of great tragedy and sadness. When the Fukishima Disaster struck Japan in March 2011, Israel was the only country to send a medical team of 70 personnel to the area that was most affected, as well as medical supplies and equipment donated to local Japanese hospitals. This vital aid helped Japan to respond, though in a modest way, to the disaster, and Israel was pleased to have done what it could to aid the Japanese people in this time of great trial.

Before I conclude, I do want to take a moment to mention the peace process in the Middle East. Along with the United States and the European Union, Japan one of the most important contributors to the cause of peace in the Middle East, and since 1992 has contributed $1.3 billion in projects aimed at breaking down the barriers in the way of peace. The flagship project is known as the Corridor for Peace and Prosperity, an agricultural-industrial park in Jericho, and there are many other civilian projects throughout the West Bank and Gaza.

It is also noteworthy that Japan helps to finance the Multinational Force of Observers in the Sinai Peninsula, and that 30 Japanese Soldiers are deployed to the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in the Golan Heights. Israel is deeply appreciative to Japan's commitment to its security and the stability of the region.

I also want to take a moment to express my gratitude on behalf of the Israeli government and people to Mr. Yutaka Uemura, the outgoing Special Envoy to the Middle East peace process from Japan, and to wish great success to the incoming Envoy Yohei Kono. Israel is confident that Mr. Kono will continue the excellent work of Mr. Uemura in his new role.

Mr. Ambassador, please allow me to conclude by asking you to convey our best wishes to His Majesty the Emperor, and to the Government and People of Japan on your National Day. May the bonds between our nations continue to grow in the years ahead."

  Representing the Prime Minister of Israel, Harel Locker, Said the following:

"Com ban wa,

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am the director general of the prime minister office of Israel, and I would like to read to you this evening, Prime Minister Netanyahu's greeting on the occasion of the Emperor's birthday celebrations.

Ambassador and Mrs. Matsutomi, Friends, I join you in celebrating the birthday of His Majesty, Emperor Akihito.

Japan and Israel are two democracies at the opposite ends of the Asian continent. But our two countries and our two peoples are joined together in a very special friendship.
A friendship I experienced first-hand during my visit to Japan earlier this year when I met with senior Japanese officials, including Prime Minister Abe.

Though our countries already enjoy a strong partnership, I am convinced that there remains great untapped potential for cooperation between Israeli businesses and Japanese businesses; and between the government of Japan and the government of Israel. We both have much to gain by working together even more closely.

Japan has demonstrated remarkable industrial success, advanced science, internationally renowned quality control, consistently creative new ideas and a massive global reach.
Israel has a proven capacity for innovation, which produces unexpected and innovative thinking. The potential is clear. I see it. I believe that Prime Minister Abe sees it too.
We must work together to realize our shared potential for the benefit of both our peoples.

Ambassador and Mrs. Matsutomi, On behalf of the government of Israel; I join the people of Japan in celebrating the birthday of your Emperor.
May Japan and Israel enjoy the blessings of prosperity and peace. These were the words of Prime Minister Netanyahu.

On a personal note I, Harel Locker, would like to say, that it was a great honor to visit Japan as part of an official economic Israeli delegation, a few weeks ago.
We could sense that a new, exciting era of Japan-Israel relations is coming. Japan is one of the most technological and productive states in the world.

Israel's economy is very innovative in every field - medical devices, Agritech, Fintech, Cyber Security, renewable energy, homeland security and many other fields.
Our economies are complementary, and therefore cooperation is natural. You can be the senior partner. We could be the junior one.

Ladies and Gentleman, I'm certain that in addition to our great friendship, we will have also a great business partnership together. Together we can seize the future.
Thank you very much. Mazal Tov and Domo arigato."

In this event, we felt deeply the strong friendship between the people of both countries – Japan and Israel – which was evident in the speeches and atmosphere.
Best wishes for many more years of mutual cooperation and success for the two countries Japan and Israel!

 About Harel's role on the Japanese issue

Harel Locker, Director General of the Prime Minister's Office of Israel was appointed by the PM to Promote economic ties with Japan.

3 weeks ago he headed an economic delegation of 30 members - Government high ranking officials, leaders of the business sector and leading academics.
PM Netanyahu concluded with PM Abe upon his visit in Japan during May to promote exchange of delegations between the countries. The Japanese METI Minister
headed a delegation to Israel and now we reciprocate with an economic delegation to Japan.

The delegation conducted a 4 day visit to Kansai region and to Tokyo. Met and visited many Japanese enterprises, the Keidanren, Members of parliament and of the METI Ministry.
Representing the Government: Israel Prime Minister's Office, Ministry of Economy, Israel Ministry of Transportation, Israel Cyber Bureau, "The Fuel Choices Initiative".

Business organizations: Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute, Manufacturers Association of Israel. Israel-Japan Chamber of Commerce, Association of Craft & Industry in Israel.

Business Sector: TEVA, Amdocs, IBM Israel, Q-Core Medical, EMC, SAP Israel, IAI- Israel Aerospace Industries, 3M, Security Dam, Raphael, IMI. Academy: Tel Aviv University Center for Nano-science and Nano-technology.

Photos Silvia Golan

Details

Written by Office of the President

Published: 05 December 2014

Photo President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Lee Gun- Tae of Korea

New ambassadors from the Czech Republic, Peru, Kazakhstan and Korea today presented their Letters of Credence to President Reuven Rivlin at a formal ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem

New ambassadors from the Czech Republic, Peru, Kazakhstan and Korea today (Thursday, 4 December 2014) presented their Letters of Credence to President Reuven Rivlin at a formal ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem.

During their meeting with the president, the ambassadors expressed their hope of strengthening relations and expanding cooperation between the two countries.

 President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Ivo Schwarz of Czech Republic

Ambassador Ivo Schwarz of the Czech Republic presented his credentials, thanked the President and said, "It is an honor for me to represent my country here in Israel. The collaborative relationship between our governments is good and progressive, and includes fruitful cooperation in the areas of security and the struggle against terrorism. It will be my pleasure to strengthen the cultural and tourism relations between the citizens of our countries."

President Rivlin greeted him warmly and said: "We are deeply appreciative of the Czech people and their government; you have set an example for us. We hope that you will feel that Israel is your home."

 President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Gustavo Antonio Otero Zapata of Peru at the reception in Jerusalem

Ambassador Gustavo Antonio Otero Zapata of Peru presented his credentials to President Rivlin and said: "I have worked in Israel on previous postings, and feel that I am returning home. I would like to continue to promote the bilateral relationship between our two nations. We thank you for both your assistance and for the Israeli investments in Peru, such as the development of water technology that has made a significant contribution."

President Rivlin praised the good bilateral relationship between the two countries and said: "I have visited Peru, and have seen that both our nations share a common value, that of the deep roots of a people to its homeland."

 President Reuven Rivlin with Ambassador Doulat Kuanyhev of Kazakhstan

Ambassador Doulat Kuanyshev of Kazakhstan presented his credentials and said: "It is an honor for me to be here. The warmth I feel reminds me of home. I would like to convey warm greetings on behalf of the president of Kazakhstan, who feels a close connection to your country and to Jerusalem. We are committed to continue to encourage tolerance between different ethnic groups, and I know, Mr. President, that this is an issue dear to your heart."

President Rivlin replied: "The relationship between Israel and the Kazakh people is evidence that the conflict in our region is not related to religious beliefs. Our relationship serves as an example that despite the differences between us, cooperation can prevail. We are deeply appreciative of your president; I know he does a lot, regardless of religion. He is known as an international leader who actively works to create understanding and tolerance."

Korean Ambassador Lee Gun-tae presented his credentials to the president and said: "I hope to expand the existing technological cooperation between our nations. One of my wishes is to augment the awareness of Koreans visiting Israel, as they tend to focus mainly on the history of Israel, and expose them to Israel's advanced high-tech industries."

President Rivlin responded to the Korean ambassador and said: "I believe that during your service here we will find additional avenues of cooperation. The rapid development of Korea and the manner in which the Korean people produce miracles proves to the world that it is possible to cope with adversity while at the same time developing the country, education and quality of life."

 Photos : Copyright: GPO/Mark Neiman