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On Tuesday, September 12th 2023, the Ambassador of the Republic of Costa Rica, H.E.Mrs.Rita María Hernández Bolaños, the Ambassador of the Republic of El Salvador, H.E. Mr. Milton Eduardo Umaña Acevedo, the Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala, H.E.Mrs. Ava Atzum Arévalo de Moscoso, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Honduras, H.E. Mr. Roberto Augusto Martínez Castañeda held an historic celebration in honor of the bicentennial of Central American independence-marking 202 years since the act of independence of Central America in 1821.
The celebration took place at Daniel hotel in Herzliya with nearly 200 guests. While walking up to the hall where the event took place, and before being greeted by the four Ambassadors at the entrance, the guests had explored an art exhibtion by the Tel-Aviv based Gina gallery. The exhibition presented the work of central- American artists known for their Naive style of art, which is characterised by childlike simplicity of execution and vision.
Entering the hall, Hors d'oeuvres were served on tables decorated with flowers and small flags, and promotion videos of the four countries were displayed in the background of the beautiful coastline of Herzliya.
The ceremonial part of the evening began with playing the five national anthems including Israel’s Hatikvah, followed by remarks given Minister Ofir Akunis, Minister of Science and Technology, who spoke on behalf of the government of Israel
In his remarks, Mr. Akunis mentioned that this year marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between the four countries and Israel, which were established immediately after Israel's declaration of independence.
Akunis also expressed the deep friendship between the countries of Central America and the Jewish people, which goes back many years to the dark days of Second World War, when Arturo Castellanos, the General Consul of El Salvador in Geneva helped save 40,000 Jews by issuing them Salvadorian identity cards.
Another key person was Jorge Garcia Granados, the Guatemalan Ambassador to the U.N. who was a member of the UNSCOP delegation that supported the Partition Plan. Akunis mentioned his visit to Guatemala in 2020 in the honor of president Giammattei presidency ceremony, where he thanked him for the warm relations Israel and Guatemala have.
Akunis talked about Padre Nunez of Costa Rica, who also played an important role in lobbying support for the Partition Plan, and later, as Ambassador to the U.N. and to Israel, fought tirelessly against anti-Israel resolutions. Last, Akunis offered thanks to Honduras for its part in permitting the ship Exodus in 1947 to sail, carrying thousands of Jewish Holocaust survivors from Europe to Israel.
Then Akunis thanked Guatemala and Honduras for having their embassies in Jerusalem, while hoping that El Salvador and Costa Rica would return their embassies to Jerusalem in the near future.
Akunis also expressed his hope that In order to continue to deepen the relations with the countries of Central America, Israel will be accepted into SICA as an observer.
Akunis concluded by wishing the governments and the people of Central America a future of peace, security and prosperity, and that you enjoy your celebrations for your independence.
Akunis was followed by the Ambassador of the Republic of El Salvador, H.E. Mr. Milton Eduardo Umaña Acevedo who gave remarks on behalf of the four countries. The ambassador started by saying that Central America is rewriting its history, basing its construction of true independence on a freedom that promotes benefits and developments for their people. He suggested that now the focus should be on goals that position Central America before the world as modern nations at the forefront of opportunities.
The Ambassador committed to keep promoting the culture of these countries through common historical ties, and to promote trade, investment, and tourism, which will benefit the people as well as foreign investors through the SICA programming, in an environment of trust and security.
The ambassador mentioned that the 202 years of independence followed a very intense process of events for the countries but that overall, all Central American nations have aimed at seeking better development and progress for their citizens based on respect for the sovereign power that resides within its own people.
According to him, the integration that the Central American countries enjoy today has been possible, to a large extent, due to the accompaniment and support that we have been receiving from the international community and from friendly countries, such as Israel.
He elaborated the Israeli efforts during the 50s and 60s, when Israel offered joint programs to share knowledge and skills in areas such as agriculture, medicine, cooperative organizations, and rural development both regional and communal. He mentioned the thousands of students who have since participated in study programs in Israel with Mashav cooperation projects, which guides the participants on the construction of a modern state through knowledge and innovation.
The Ambassador concluded by thanking, on behalf of the four countries, "Keren Kayemet Le Israel" (JNF) for the support provided to carry out the ceremony, and the guests who attended. He wished Israel Shana Tova U’metuka, Happy new Jewish year. The speech was followed by raising a toast for independence and solidarity.
Mr. Eitan Ginzburg, representing Keren Kakement L’Israel (JNF), spoke about the partnership between the Jewish National Fund (JNF) and Central American countries, which represents a valuable collaboration aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and community development.
Among the distinguished guests also were Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Jonathan Peled – Deputy Director General for Latin America of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Leo Vinovezky Director of the Economic Division Department for Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean; David Cohen former Ambassador of Israel to El Salvador; Honorary Consul of Costa-Rica in Haifa Mr. Nathan Allalouf and his wife Limor, Honorary Consul of Guatemala Mr. Hernan Felman; First Vice-President of Edmond De Rothschild bank Mr. Nicolas Levy ,Gabriel Hayon – President of the Diplomatic Institute; Mauricio Diamond; Int’l Spokesperson of the Intl’ Christian Embassy in Jerusalem Mr. Miguel Munoz Valeriano; and President of Israel-America Latina Chamber Mr. Roberto Spindel; Ariel Stuczynski - Desk Manager Sud America at the KKL ( Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael ); Ambassadors, others diplomatics, military, business leaders and members of the Latin American community in Israel;
Diplomacy.co.il offers congratulations to the 4 Governments, Embassies and people on its 202 National Day, and wish best wishes for success and strong bilateral relations between the nations
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
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31 AUGUST 2023, RISHON LEZION, ISRAEL – Filipinos in the Holy Land gathered to pay tribute to President Manuel Quezon at the Open Doors Monument, where Ambassador Pedro R. Laylo, Jr. led a solemn wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the late President’s 145th birth anniversary (19 August) and 79th death anniversary (01 August). The monument was designed by the Ambassador's good friend, Jun Yee.
Located in Rishon Lezion, a city south of Tel Aviv, the monument honors Quezon’s compassionate act of providing refuge to 1300 Jews fleeing Europe during the Holocaust. His rescue of Jewish refugees, who became known as the Manilaners, has since become an important cornerstone of Philippines-Israel relations.
“Let us always remember Quezon, honor his legacy of kindness and compassion, and live the ideals he stood for. Let us, like him, be champions of open doors, open minds, and open hearts”, Ambassador Laylo said in his remarks. He also shared his poignant meetings with living Manilaners and their descendants. The envoy then called on Filipinos in Israel to help in spreading more awareness of Quezon’s humanitarian act.
Deputy Mayor Michael Raif and International Affairs Director Annette Ben-Shahar laid a wreath on behalf of Rishon Lezion Mayor Raz Kinstlich.Danny Weissler, son of the late Manilaner Max Weissler, also offered flowers. He was accompanied by Asher Gofer, son of Holocaust survivors; his Filipina wife Daisy, and their daughter, Doryliz. Doryliz’s footprint is carved in the monument’s floor to symbolize the descendants of Holocaust survivors and the continuing friendship between the Philippines and Israel. Leaders of various Filipino Community groups and organizations also participated in the wreath-laying.
Also present at the ceremony were Former Philippine Ambassador to Israel, Petronila Garcia; Mr. Simi Salpeter, a dear and long-time friend of the Embassy and Filipinos in ISR, diplomatic reporter Silvia Golan; and Ms. Tony Levy, external relations officer of Holon Institute of Technology (HIT).
Traditional Filipino merienda such as ginataang bilo-bilo, puto, suman, and buko juice were served to guests after the program.
The Philippine Embassy continues to fulfill its key task of spreading awareness of Quezon’s Open Door Policy, the story of the Manilaners, and how important these are to Philippines-Israel relations. To this end, the Embassy holds film and documentary screenings, participates in historical commemorations, attends Holocaust remembrance events, and gives lectures to Jewish organizations and students. The Embassy is also home to Balai Quezon, a cultural and information center devoted to the life and legacy of the late President.
Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
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India celebrate Independence Day on August 15 by engaging in many patriotic and cultural activities.
Embassy of India in Tel Aviv celebrated the 77th Independence Day today at the Ambassador's residence in Hertzliya Pituach.
H.E. Ambassador Mr. Sanjeev Singla hoisted the National flag and read out the speech of the President of India H.E. Mrs. Droupadi Murmu.
The residence was adorned with flags and flowers in tricolors India’s national colors.
Guests enjoyed traditional indian food with the tastings of Indian snackes by the restauranter Mrs. Reena Pushkarna, who added flavors to the event .
More of the the presents were dressed in a traditional and colorful Indian wear
Among the distinguished guests were members of the Indian Community, friends of India and Senior officials of the Embassy.
Videos and photos credit : Indian Embassy and Silvia G Golan
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On Thursday, August 24, the Embassy of Uruguay commemorated in Israel the 198th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a reception that took place at the Sourasky Central Library of Tel Aviv University. The Ambassador of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, Mr. Manuel Etchevarren, and his wife Mrs. Ana Solivellas, Mrs. Ifigenia Xifre Consul, Mr. Abraham Aman Honorary Consul, and Mr. Julio Lieberman Honorary Consul, received the guests and compatriots.
The evening opened with the hymns of Israel and Uruguay.
Ambassador Etchevarren began his speech by welcoming the Minister of Intelligence Mrs. Gila Gamliel, the representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other institutions, diplomats accredited in Israel, the Members of the Foundation for the Promotion of Uruguayan Culture in Israel – who organized the exhibition that accompanied this celebration of the 198th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, to compatriots and other guests. He expressed : “I consider myself very lucky to be here again, since I began my career as consul at the Embassy in Israel a little over three decades ago, and I had the honor and pleasure of being at the first of the national holidays celebrated in this University, which today opens its doors for us again...” He highlighted the opportunity to be participating in key moments, such as the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the State of Israel, and the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations between Israel and Uruguay, which are much older than those three-quarters of a century, because Uruguay was an important factor in the entire movement that led to the creation of this State, such as the decisive vote in the United Nations, which led to the birth of the modern State of Israel, as you all know. The Head of the Uruguayan Delegation at that time, Enrique Rodríguez Fabregat, has some streets that honor him in Israel (Ramat Gan, Holón) and was described as "a natural friend of our cause" by Menahem Begin. I was also fortunate to participate in various commemorations such as the inauguration at the end of May of a mural in Zichron Yaakov - the culmination of a process initiated by my predecessor Bernardo Graiver and the aforementioned friends and team - that commemorates the friendship between both countries and called La Radio, because the aforementioned vote was followed by many listeners, especially here in the territory of what was to be the State of Israel, precisely through that means, the radio.» …». By the way, recently, the President of Israel, Mr. Itzhak Herzog, a friend from Uruguay, visited and was able to appreciate the work, as well as I hope the Uruguayan wines from the Garzón winery.”
The ambassador highlighted the recent and very successful visit to Uruguay by Minister Eli Cohen, accompanied by an important delegation, which included Ambassador Jonathan Peled, confirming the excellent state of bilateral relations. And to finish, he mentioned the value of the exhibition, which reflects the experience and experiences of those who made “Aliyah” from Uruguay, expressed from very different perspectives and artistic languages, in an exhibition that invites reflection, highly connected with feelings.
He stated how much there is in common, between the 198 years of the Independence of Uruguay declared on August 25, 1825 and the Independence of the modern State of Israel, expressed that" May 14, 1948, where between very different contexts we can extract a common experience: the awareness that this commitment that gave rise to each of the states can only be fully realized if it is constantly renewed, if beyond all gaps or differences we are capable as a society of feeling integrated into a superior body that contains and identifies, and in which we invest our creative energies and our renewing criticisms.” He expressed his appreciation to the University of Tel Aviv, to those previously mentioned, all that network of collaborators that is sometimes more visible and other times less visible, more or less formal or informal, Embassy staff, honorary consuls in Haifa and Ashdod, Garzón wine importer (AIBBLS) cooperators always very necessary and generous with their time and effort.
The Minister of Intelligence, Mrs. Gila Gamliel, representing the government of Israel expressed: “It is a great pleasure and honor for me to represent the government and the people of Israel, to congratulate the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, on the occasion of its National Holiday. Exactly one week ago, our Minister of Foreign Affairs, Eli Cohen, visited Uruguay and met with both President Louis Lacalle Pou and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francisco Bustillo Bonasso. This historic visit is proof of the deep and far-reaching relations that our two nations share. This is a historic moment as both countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations. Israel and Uruguay share a long history of friendship. The leadership and participation of the Uruguayan diplomat, Enrique Rodríguez Fabregat, in 1947 in the Special Committee of the United Nations, and the subsequent vote of Uruguay in favor of the UN Partition Plan led to the establishment of the State of Israel. Uruguay was the fourth country to recognize Israel. This was a historic gesture of solidarity and support, and we will never forget it. We are also grateful for the open arms with which Uruguay welcomed Jewish refugees from World War II. The Jewish community in Uruguay today is vibrant, strong, and an integral element of Uruguayan society. Israel and Uruguay can work together to develop new technologies, promote peace and stability in the region, and fight terrorism and other forms of extremism. Dealing with Iran is a critical issue in the current battle against terrorism. The actions of the Ayatollah regime have created a dangerous environment that reaches far beyond the borders of the Middle East and casts a shadow across the world. In this sense, Uruguay has the opportunity to be together with Israel to confront the activities of the ayatollahs' regime, with solidarity and unwavering determination. This collaborative stance would not only serve to protect Uruguay's own interests, but would also contribute significantly to maintaining global security. In recent years, Israel and Uruguay have been working to strengthen economic ties between the two countries, which can be demonstrated by the decision to open an innovation office in Jerusalem. As everyone knows, Israel prides itself on its vibrant startup and innovation ecosystem and is happy to share its knowledge and experience with our friends. Ambassador, it will be an honor for us to receive an official visit from the President of Uruguay here in Israel in the coming months. I am sure that the future of our relationship will be bright."
After the formal part, while the guests toured the exhibition, the Ambassador spoke with the guests and I had the opportunity to ask him personally about the plans to open an Embassy office in Jerusalem. He told me "that a Technological, Commercial and Cultural office is going to be opened that will offer more possibilities to the excellent relations between the two countries."
Among the guests were: Ambassador Gil Haskel, Head of State Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel; Jonathan Peled – Deputy Director General for Latin America of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ariel Goldstein – Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister's Office; Leo Vinovezky, Leo Vinovezky – Director of the Economic Division Department for Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean; Ms. Sharon Shaviv (Kabalo), Director of the South America Department; Daniel Saban, former Israeli Ambassador to various South American countries; Gabriel Hayon – President of the Diplomatic Institute; Lawyer and notary Leon Amiras; Solomon Esterlis Director of Projects of the Mekorot Water Treatment Company (very active in South America); Perla Angelman Bawnik and many foreign ambassadors especially from South America, military, business leaders and members of the Uruguayan community in Israel.
The collective exhibition of paintings “#what I brought from Uruguay” was held from August 1 to 25, 2023, with the participation of 15 Uruguayan artists living in Israel at the Sourasky Central Library of Tel Aviv University.
The guests were delighted with excellent Uruguayan wines from the Garzón winery, the pleasant Uruguayan music in the background, and typical Uruguayan and South American foods, such as sandwiches de miga and Chajá made by the famous Mabel Jaitt’s catering.
The Staff of www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government, people and Embassy of Uruguay on the occasion of the 198th anniversary of its Independence.
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On the occasion of the 78th Anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the 30th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the State of Israel , the Ambassador Ly Duc Trung and Madame Pham Minh Trang held a reception on Sunday 23 July at the King David Tower sea hall , in Tel Aviv.
At the entrance we saw a display of a large number of products from Vietnam and the place was adorned with flags and flowers in tricolors Vietnam’s national colors.
Upon entering beautiful ladies dressed in national attire called our attention, especially 2 dressed one with the flag of Viet Nam and the other of Israel, dresses made by Mrs Lili Huang Thu Nguyen
Honorary guests were H.E. Mr.Tran Luu Quang, Deputy Prime Minister of Viet Nam ,Minister Ofir Akunis, Minister of Science and Technology and Mr. Yaron Mayer , Ambassador of Israel to Vietnam
The formal part of the evening opened with theVietnam and Hatikva, the Israeli national anthem.
His Excellency Ambassador Ly Duc Trung welcomed his guests in a moving address: " In August 1945, under the leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam headed by President Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnamese people successfully launched an uprising to seize power and declared Independence on 2 September. The newly founded Viet Nam had to go through another 30-year-long struggle for national liberation and reunification. In 1975, southern Viet Nam liberated and the country reunified. Since then, the unified Viet Nam has ushered into a new era of peace, unification and national construction. In the first ten years of post-war period, many socio-economic targets could not be achieved due to both internal and external reasons. Viet Nam’s economy fell into crisis and stagnation. People’s lives were difficult. Therefore, at the 6th Congress of the Communist Party in 1986, Doi Moi (or renovation) policy was launched with focus on economic reforms. This marked an important milestone in Viet Nam’s new stage of development. From then on, Viet Nam, from a food importer, has become the second largest rice and coffee exporter in the world. Viet Nam also exports various other commodities with well-known brands.
The economy has attained high growth rate during the late 20th century and early decades of the 21st century. People’s lives have been significantly improved and Vietnamese are ready to embark on the cause of national construction towards the goals of an affluent people, prosperous nation, and democratic, equitable and advanced society.
Thanks to the consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, diversification and multilateralization of international relations, active international integration, and being a friend, a reliable partner and a responsible member of the international community together with upholding the bamboo diplomacy, today, Viet Nam is considered a success story. The economy has proven resilient through different crises. As Viet Nam has grown bolder in its development aspirations, aiming to become a developed and high-income country by 2045.
Let me share a thought that a few mega trends are shaping the future of Viet Nam. The country’s population is now 100 million and rapidly aging while global trade is declining. Environmental degradation, climate change, and the rise of automation are growing. The Covid-19 crisis presented unprecedented challenges that might undermine progress towards development. To rise to challenges, Viet Nam needs to dramatically improve its performance to implement policies particularly in finance, environment, digital transformation, social protection and infratructure where countries and partners around the world including Israel can give a helping hand.
Thanks to the consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, diversification and multilateralization of international relations, active international integration, and being a friend, a reliable partner and a responsible member of the international community together with upholding the bamboo diplomacy, today, Viet Nam is considered a success story. The economy has proven resilient through different crises. As Viet Nam has grown bolder in its development aspirations, aiming to become a developed and high-income country by 2045.
Let me share a thought that a few mega trends are shaping the future of Viet Nam. The country’s population is now 100 million and rapidly aging while global trade is declining. Environmental degradation, climate change, and the rise of automation are growing. The Covid-19 crisis presented unprecedented challenges that might undermine progress towards development. To rise to challenges, Viet Nam needs to dramatically improve its performance to implement policies particularly in finance, environment, digital transformation, social protection and infratructure where countries and partners around the world including Israel can give a helping hand.
Since Viet Nam and Israel established diplomatic relations on 12 July 1993, the friendly cooperation between the two countries has grown increasingly close in all fields. The past thirty years have witnessed exchanges of visits between leaders of the two countries during which frameworks for cooperation established to facilitate bilateral cooperation in all fields including political, economic, trade, investment, high-tech, smart agriculture and others. In addition, Israel has supported Viet Nam in human resource training through short courses and agriculture internship programs as well as sending experts and technicians to various cities and provinces in Viet Nam to exchange experience and knowledge and provide instructions of effective working methods and utilization of advanced machinery.
On the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, we are here to warmly congratulate the two States, Governments and Peoples for the new milestones in the bilateral relationship, including the completion of Viet Nam - Israel Free Trade Agreement (VIFTA) which will help increase two-way trade volume, tourism and people-to-people exchange, thus creating more business opportunities in economic and investment cooperation. It is our hope that Viet Nam and Israel will continue developing and strengthening respective international status. And we have a strong belief that by working together, the two countries can achieve even greater success in all fields of cooperation.
As the Ambassador of Viet Nam to Israel, I am committed to strengthening the relationship between our countries even further. I will work tirelessly with the two States, Governments and Peoples to continue building upon the achievements of the past thirty years, in the interest of our people, and for peace, stability, and prosperity of the two regions and the world. With that, in the solemn astmosphere of today, I would like to wish leaders of Viet Nam and Israel good health, friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and Israel ever grown and greater prosperity to our peoples. And all the best wishes to all distinguished guests present here tonight. Thank you very much! Toda raba."
On the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, we are here to warmly congratulate the two States, Governments and Peoples for the new milestones in the bilateral relationship, including the completion of Viet Nam - Israel Free Trade Agreement (VIFTA) which will help increase two-way trade volume, tourism and people-to-people exchange, thus creating more business opportunities in economic and investment cooperation. It is our hope that Viet Nam and Israel will continue developing and strengthening respective international status. And we have a strong belief that by working together, the two countries can achieve even greater success in all fields of cooperation.
As the Ambassador of Viet Nam to Israel, I am committed to strengthening the relationship between our countries even further. I will work tirelessly with the two States, Governments and Peoples to continue building upon the achievements of the past thirty years, in the interest of our people, and for peace, stability, and prosperity of the two regions and the world. With that, in the solemn astmosphere of today, I would like to wish leaders of Viet Nam and Israel good health, friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and Israel ever grown and greater prosperity to our peoples. And all the best wishes to all distinguished guests present here tonight. Thank you very much! Toda raba."
Minister Ofir Akunis, Israel’s Minister of Science and Technology congratulated on behalf of the State of Israel said: " In 1993, Israel and Vietnam established diplomatic relations. Over the 30(thirty) years since then, the relations have steadily flourished, especially over the last decade. Today, I am honored and pleased to say that the relations between our two countries are stronger than ever!
We enjoy close cooperation in many areas, such as agriculture and medicine - and a rich variety of initiatives exist in the field of education, innovation and start-ups. Many Vietnamese students’ study in Israel, and we hope to see more of them.
As Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, I am committed to accelerate joint projects on innovative research, startup ecosystem, and technology transfer.
Our economic ties have also grown tighter over the years. During this significant visit we will sign the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a strategically important milestone in promoting trade between the countries.
I congratulate Vietnam on being the first South-east Asian country to sign such an agreement with Israel, and I hope it will encourage more ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries to follow.
I am certain that the momentum developed over the past years will only continue to grow and I look forward to setting new goals for expanding and deepening the partnership between our countries.
Personally, I'm very proud to be a part of the political movement led by the one of greatest leader of Israel- Menachem Begin, who agreed to accept and grant Israeli citizenship to a group of Vietnamese refugees in 1977.
Your Excellency, on behalf of the Government of the State of Israel and the Israeli people, I would like to warmly congratulate the Government and People of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on this festive occasion. May Vietnam continue to enjoy peace, security and economic prosperity and may the bonds between our two nations continue to blossom in the years ahead.
Thank you - Xin cam on. לחיים"
The speeches of the Ambassador and Minister were followed by some words of Barak Cohen - B·EV Motors Co-CEO , whose Vietnamese electric cars were on display at the hotel entrance
Following the speeches, the Ambassador Ly Duc Trung, Mr. Tran Luu Quang, Deputy Prime Minister of Viet Nam, Minister Akunis and Mr. Yaron Mayer ,Ambassador of Israel to Vietnam raised a toast to the future and wellbeing of both nations.
Among the many distinguished guests : Adv. Anat Bernstein - Reich Israel - Asia Chamber of Commerce President ; Honorary Consul of Vietnam Mr Yigal Ahouvi Businessman with his wife the famous Modeling, acting, TV hosting Galit Gutman; Yona Bartal, representative of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation; Dan Catarivas, President of the Israeli Federation of Bi-National Chambers of Commerce and Industry; Barak Cohen & Niv Oron - B·EV Motors Co-CEO and Founders ;Samuel Shevach - CEO - Global security Shevach; and a 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.
A rich buffet dinner, in grand style and with some typical Vietnamese dishes, was offered to the guests.
The evening entertainment was provided by beautiful vietnameses and Israeli singers brought the celebrations to a fitting end.
Today (Tuesday, 25 July 2023), two days later ,in the presence of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Vietnamese Deputy Premier Tran Luu Quang, , at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem, Economy and Industry Minister Nir Barkat and Vietnamese Trade and Industry Minister Nguyen Hong Dien signed a free trade agreement between the State of Israel and Vietnam. Vietnam is the second East Asian country with which Israel has a free trade agreement (after the Republic of Korea) and the first from the ASEAN bloc.
The agreement is expected to lead to the reduction of reciprocal customs duties on both imported and exported products, alongside an improvement and easing in trade in a range of additional areas. The agreement will provide a competitive advantage and ease activity for Israeli exporters in the developing and growing Vietnamese market, thereby strengthening Israeli exports and increasing growth in the economy.
Diplomacy.co.il offers congratulations to the Vietnam Government, Embassy and people on its National Day, and 30 years of Diplomatic Relations and wish best wishes for success and strong bilateral relations between the nations
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
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