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- Written by Silvia G. Golan
On Sunday evening , July 16 the Ambassador of Colombia, H.E. Mrs.Margarita Eliana Manjarrez Herrera, held a celebration of the 213th anniversary of Colombian Independence and the 66th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Colombia and Israel by hosted a cultural, culinary , music and dance event at " Zappa " in Herzliya Pituach
The cultural program offered an excellent opportunity to familiarize the Israeli public with the Colombian music and danse and starts with the presentation of the famous Colombian tenor Alejandro Escobar, tenor of phenomenal voice, capable of tenderness and great blouse showmanship.
Escobar’s is an excellent performer with tremendous voice. He is a tenor with great power and quality, and a wonderful stylist with a natural voice. He amazed audience with his fantastically Colombian worldwide known songs as songs: Colombia Pueblito Viejo, La Ruana (Bambuco) and Soy Colombiano, Pasillo Brisas Del Pamplonita, Cumbia La Piragua, Vallenato La Gota Fría and famous Cumbia La Pollera Colora, and his command of the lyrics was sensational. The Escobar’s magnetism made him irresistible. The Israeli Opera lovers will have opportunity to listen Alejandro Escobar as Alfredo Germont in famous Verdi’s opera La Traviata in Haifa on July 30 and 31, 2023.
After the playing of the national anthems, Ambassador Margarita Manjarrez welcomed the guests then began her remarks. " this year we wanted to offer a cultural event. Today not only honoring our homeland and the country that hosts us with our national anthems, but mostly focusing on our beautiful Colombian music within a festive atmosphere" ... Building a nation is not an easy task. Colombia, despite its 213 years, continues to walk, with progress, with setbacks, with challenges and hopes like those of all societies that seek well-being, the guarantee of rights, happiness, and a good life for their citizens. In our country, one of the challenges we continue to work on is the objective of achieving true and definitive peace. This national purpose is based on the conviction that dialogue is the way to resolve conflicts. The second challenge is the task of continuing to develop while doing so in a sustainable way, because although we are a biodiverse nation rich in resources, we also suffer to a high degree from the effects of climate change and environmental deterioration.
These two challenges, the achievement of total peace and overcoming the environmental crisis, not only concern Colombia, but they also concern the entire world. For this reason, we should rejoice when progress is made anywhere on the planet in coexistence and democracy, as much as when technologies, means and actions that preserve and improve the environment are developed.
In this last aspect, we have made progress in cooperation with Israel, a country that is an example of the development of new technologies in crucial sectors such as agriculture and clean energy. This is very important because science and innovation should promote our societies, as well peace and culture. For this reason, this night of celebration of our independence is above all a cultural dialogue.
I am convinced that knowing the cultural richness of other societies and sharing ours is the basis for achieving understanding, good relations, agreements, and coexistence. Recognizing and valuing the other also allows us to do business, to invest, to visit, and to cooperate with one another. After various negotiations, this year we will sign a Film Co-Production Agreement with Israel and a Cooperation Program in Education, Science, Culture, Sports, and Youth, because Colombia and Israel feed off each other. Tourists, investors, workers and students, officials, diplomats, scientists, all of us who weave relations between our two countries soak up each other's culture and are representatives of our own. Colombians in Israel also represent us, with their joy, their tenacity and their perseverance and each one is a bridge with Israel and its people.
For this reason, to delve a little deeper into this cultural knowledge, we welcomed you with a photographic exhibition about life in the Eastern Plains of Colombia by the artist Juanita Escobar, part of what we brought to the Photo Israel festival last year and we have had Colombian musical rhythms in the great voice the tenor Alejandro Escobar. Now we will offer a gastronomic test of Colombian empanadas and arepas and give way to the dance music segment with Gustavo Quiñonez, who I hope will encourage you to dance and to end this celebration of our national day with many smiles."
The joyful celebration continued with the Show of Gustavo Quiñones, Latin singer & composer from Colombia, living in Israel. He makes the Colombian Independence Day an extraordinary celebration of dance and festival of culture and friendship between Colombia and Israel
At the entrance we see an photographic exhibition about life in the Eastern Plains of Colombia by the artist Juanita Escobar, part of what we brought to the Photo Israel festival last year
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were :Jonathan Peled- Deputy Director General for Latin America Israel MFA ;Ariel Goldshtein - Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister Office;
Amb.Irit Savion Waidergorn Director Training Department MASHAV; Matias Schapiro, President of the Israel-Spain Chamber of Commerce; Gabriel Hayon - President of the Diplomatic Institute; Mrs. Tony Levy, External relations ,President Office HIT Holon Institute of Technology; Tali Laufer Epstein CEO The Israel Association of Travel Agencies & Consultants; and many foreign Ambassadors, militars, business leaders and members of the Colombian community in Israel
The Staff of www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government, people, and Embassy of Colombia on the occasion of the 213th anniversary of Colombian Independence and the 66d anniversary of diplomatic relations between Colombia and Israel.
Photos Silvia Golan
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Very special evening held by the Spain Embassy to Israel to celebrate inclusion through culture to mark the beginning of the Spanish Presidency of the European Union, at Nalagaat Center - Port of Yaffo Tel Aviv
The program included: Opening Cocktail; A scene from the show " Not by bread alone". Eleven deaf - blind actors take the audience on a magical tour in the districts on their inner world; the world of darkness, silence and... bread and an Special superb Flamenco performance in the dark
Spanish Embassy in Israel Ushers in Their Presidency of the EU Council with a Strong Call for Inclusion**
On the evening of July 5th, the Spanish Embassy in Israel became a focal point for a potent blend of diplomacy, cultural celebration, and advocacy for inclusivity. The event marked the Spanish Presidency's first event of the Council of the European Union in Israel. in motion. The night reverberated with palpable commitment to shared global objectives, European unity, and the struggle for a more inclusive society.
On the evening of July 5th, the Spanish Embassy in Israel became a focal point for a potent blend of diplomacy, cultural celebration, and advocacy for inclusivity. The event marked the Spanish Presidency's first event of the Council of the European Union in Israel. in motion. The night reverberated with palpable commitment to shared global objectives, European unity, and the struggle for a more inclusive society.
In his opening speech, the Spanish ambassador Mrs. Ana María Salomón Pérez, referenced Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's recent trip to Ukraine on the first day of Spain's term, emphasizing the unequivocal support Spain and the EU extend to Ukraine. The ambassador quoted Jessica Roswall, the Minister for European Affairs of Sweden, asserting that Ukraine's fight for freedom is essentially a fight for the freedom of all.
The ambassador harkened back to 1986, the pivotal year when Spain joined the European project and established diplomatic relations with Israel, underlining the profound transformations since then. The ambassador drew attention to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a comprehensive framework to guide international efforts, symbolized by the five P's: People, Prosperity, Planet, Partnership, and Peace.
This guiding vision, she explained, inspired Spain's four priority lines of action during their presidency. They comprise reindustrialisation and Open Strategic Autonomy, the green transition, enhancing social and economic justice, and strengthening European unity. Emphasis was placed on a people-focused presidency, determined to enhance inclusivity and safeguard the most vulnerable groups.
The ambassador's speech held a resolute emphasis on inclusion, highlighting that almost 15% of European citizens have a certain degree of disability. He noted that both Israel and the EU have significantly contributed to the inclusion of persons with disabilities, and affirmed that this commitment was reflected in the night's event.
The evening was marked by the ambassador's collaboration with the Israeli non-profit, Na Laga'at, an organization dedicated to providing equal opportunities for people with disabilities. The partnership showcased a vibrant tableau of inclusion and integration, offering attendees an "eye-opening" experience. The event featured a cocktail catered by deaf individuals, followed by a theatrical scene from the show "Not by Bread Alone", performed by deaf-blind actors and actresses. The evening concluded with a Flamenco performance in the dark, enabling attendees to experience the dance through feeling rather than sight.
Thanking the CEO of Na Laga'at, Oren Itzhaki, and all those who contributed to the event, the ambassador acknowledged the unyielding effort that went into organizing the night. The event was a testament to the strong ties between Spain and Israel, a symbol of the shared commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
This guiding vision, she explained, inspired Spain's four priority lines of action during their presidency. They comprise reindustrialisation and Open Strategic Autonomy, the green transition, enhancing social and economic justice, and strengthening European unity. Emphasis was placed on a people-focused presidency, determined to enhance inclusivity and safeguard the most vulnerable groups.
The ambassador's speech held a resolute emphasis on inclusion, highlighting that almost 15% of European citizens have a certain degree of disability. He noted that both Israel and the EU have significantly contributed to the inclusion of persons with disabilities, and affirmed that this commitment was reflected in the night's event.
The evening was marked by the ambassador's collaboration with the Israeli non-profit, Na Laga'at, an organization dedicated to providing equal opportunities for people with disabilities. The partnership showcased a vibrant tableau of inclusion and integration, offering attendees an "eye-opening" experience. The event featured a cocktail catered by deaf individuals, followed by a theatrical scene from the show "Not by Bread Alone", performed by deaf-blind actors and actresses. The evening concluded with a Flamenco performance in the dark, enabling attendees to experience the dance through feeling rather than sight.
Thanking the CEO of Na Laga'at, Oren Itzhaki, and all those who contributed to the event, the ambassador acknowledged the unyielding effort that went into organizing the night. The event was a testament to the strong ties between Spain and Israel, a symbol of the shared commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
The Spanish ambassador's heartfelt address, steeped in solidarity, compassion, and hope, set the tone for Spain's upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union. It left attendees with an unforgettable evening, a renewed commitment to social inclusion, and a strong sense of anticipation for the transformative work Spain will undertake during its term.
The Ambassador of the European Union ,H.E. Ambassador Dimiter Tzantchev greeted Spain and offers best wishes for success
And finally the -CEO of na lagaat center, Oren Itzhaki said: You watched the first part from our play "Not by Bread Alone" , Eleven deaf-blind actors take the audience on a magical tour in the districts of their inner world; the world of darkness, silence and…bread. That play has been performed since 2007 on the stage of the theater.
Na Laga’at is a one of a kind non-profit arts and cultural center that represents an equal meeting place between Deaf, blind and deaf-blind individuals together with the general public.
A lot of organizations have recently been talking about integrating everyone, saying that more must be done.
We cannot truly integrate as a society unless we understand that integration should begin with supporting the development of abilities on the one hand and experiencing meetings on the other.
Above all ,for all of us releasing the sense of poverty for blind and deaf people and change the attitude approach to and social integration and in our case cultural integration
According to the Article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights “everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share his advancement and its benefits.” Cultural rights are, inseparable from human rights.
In nalagaat center Every day, we try to find and bring out the special abilities of our employees to create more new and diverse activities that will allow the general public to meet through a personal experience with the people who work here.
We believe that all men are equal and that we have to accept responsibility for each other and to help contribute to society all people with and without disability
Na Laga’at is a one of a kind non-profit arts and cultural center that represents an equal meeting place between Deaf, blind and deaf-blind individuals together with the general public.
A lot of organizations have recently been talking about integrating everyone, saying that more must be done.
We cannot truly integrate as a society unless we understand that integration should begin with supporting the development of abilities on the one hand and experiencing meetings on the other.
Above all ,for all of us releasing the sense of poverty for blind and deaf people and change the attitude approach to and social integration and in our case cultural integration
According to the Article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights “everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share his advancement and its benefits.” Cultural rights are, inseparable from human rights.
In nalagaat center Every day, we try to find and bring out the special abilities of our employees to create more new and diverse activities that will allow the general public to meet through a personal experience with the people who work here.
We believe that all men are equal and that we have to accept responsibility for each other and to help contribute to society all people with and without disability
I hope we will open agate and start a cooperation between Israel and Spain on inclusive cultural activities to increase awareness of inclusive culture activities in the world
.I want to invite to the stage , the Dancer and choreographer: Sharon Saguy(i) , Singers: Yael Horwitz , Shuku Sveiky, Guitar: Ofir Atar.
Among the guests who took part in the celebration were Jonathan Peled- Deputy Director General for Latin America Israel MFA ; Ambassador Aviva Raz Shecheter- MFA Instructor , Israel National Defense College; Dani Dayan - Chairman of the Yad Vashem Directorate; Professor Shimon Shetreet, the Greenblatt Chair of Public and International Law at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and a former Minister of Economy; Ayala Meitav Senior Project Manager for International Relations Tel Aviv -Yafo Municipality; Anat Sar- Israel Fashion Designer Kiki dresstodress and many foreign Ambassadors and business leaders.
The Staff of www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government, people, and Embassy of Spain on this occasion and offers best wishes for success
Photos Silvia Golan
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The Embassy of the Philippines in Israel held an historic celebration on Thursday night–the 125th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence . To mark the occasion, diplomats, community leaders and friends of the Philippines met at the Dan Hotel in Tel Aviv for a joyous celebration.
H.E. Ambassador Pedro Laylo Jr., Ambassador of the Philippines in Israel, welcomed the guests. The ambassador recalled the courage of President Manuel Quezon, who during the dark days of the Holocaust, opened the doors of the Philippines to Jewish refugees from Europe, saving thousands of lives. Ambassador Laylo explained that this powerful history paved the way for the strong ties between Israel and the Philippines.
Ambassador Laylo noted that this vibrant connection between the two countries extended to warm interpersonal relationships, witnessed daily in the thousands of Israelis lovingly tended to by caregivers from the Philippines, who refer to their charges as “Imma”, “Saba”, as beloved members of the family. The Ambassador stated that there are approximately 20,000 caregivers and 2,000 hotel workers in Israel from the Philippines.
Looking to the more recent past, Ambassador Laylo pointed out that the goals post-Covid 19 had been to “rebuild”, and that the facts bore out the achievements in this regard, with record highs in bilateral trade and commercial activities. The ambassador listed defense cooperation and tourism as key areas for cooperation between the two countries, while also emphasizing the private sector opportunities such as innovation, research and development. Ambassador Laylo said that in the Philippines, Israel is seen as an incubator for new ideas to boost productivity, while for Israel the Philippines is an ideal opportunity to grow its presence in the region.
Ambassador Gil Haskel, chief of protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, took the stage next. Draped in a celebratory sash, Ambassador Haskel noted the vibrant and growing bilateral ties, which include the recent visit to the Philippines by Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and participation in the Israel-Philippines Business Forum 2023: Building Bridges of Innovation. Ambassador Haskel said that Israel, founded half a century later, sees itself as a “younger” brother of the Philippines.
A video greeting was then played with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issuing a greeting to the guests and congratulations to the people of the Philippines, and calling for the special friendship between the people to grow ever stronger. A second video of foreign minister Cohen emphasized that the Philippines was the only country in Asia to support Israeli independence at the UN, and the warm welcome of Jews by the Philippines during World War II.
Following the speeches, Ambassador Rafael Harpaz, Deputy Director General for Asia and the Pacific at the Israeli Ministry for Foreign Affairs and former ambassador to the Philippines, joined Ambassador Laylo and Ambassador Haskel on stage for a toast to the welfare of both countries. Guests then enjoyed a lavish dinner, including special dishes and cocktails prepared using recipes from the Philippines. A band then took the stage, and guests danced to lively music with the theme “music from the ‘80s”, for a truly festive celebration.
And on Saturday, also Hayarkon Park in Tel Aviv provided a spectacular setting for the celebration of the Philippines' 125th anniversary of independence, meticulously arranged by the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv.
The festivities were a vibrant affair, showcasing Filipino dances, melodic tunes, and a booth offering a delectable array of traditional Filipino cuisine.
This remarkable occasion was graced by the esteemed presence of Philippine Ambassador Pedro Laylo, who fervently emphasized the unbreakable tie between the Philippines and Israel.
Furthermore, he shed light on the ongoing collaborative endeavors aimed at advancing the direct flight initiative.
Diplomacy.co.il congratulates the embassy and people of the Philippines on their 125th anniversary and offers best wishes for success.
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The Embassy of Slovenia in Israel held a National Day celebration Wednesday night in honor of Statehood Day, marking Slovenia's declaration of independence from Yugoslavia on June 25th 1991. The event was hosted by H.E. Ambassador Mrs. Andreja Purkart Martinez at the ambassador’s residence in Herzliya Pituach.
Upon arrival, the Ambassador and members of the Embassy staff received the guests, who enjoyed Hors d'oeuvre while jazz music was played in the background by the Gil Livni Trio. The flags of Slovenia, the European Union and Israel stood in the garden, behind the podium where the Ambassador delivered her speech.
Ambassador Martinez opened her remarks by noting that it will be 32 years of Slovenia’s independence, and at the same time 30 years since the opening of the Slovenian Embassy in Israel, during which the countries have developed close and friendly ties as well as strong cooperation in many other fields. More particularly, the Ambassador expressed her wish to foster cooperation in the fields of science and innovation, inspired by the many people she met who aim to improve our future.
Next, Ambassador Martinez emphasized Slovenia’s support for Ukrainian independence and territorial sovereignty, and that the country will continue helping Ukraine in every possible way.
Then, she mentioned Slovenia’s recent achievement of being elected as a non-permanent member of the UN security Council for the 2024-2025 term, following the “Building Trust-Securing Future” campaign. The campaign reflects Slovenia’s goal to act as a unifying force seeking constructive solutions while respecting international law in areas such as accountability, conflict prevention, transparency, women rights, peace and security agenda. The second part focuses on climate and security, water diplomacy, food security and children in armed conflict areas. She also expressed Slovenia’s wishes to deepen the dialogue with other UN members and strengthen confidence in multilateralism while building trust.
Last, Ambassador Martinez thanked her team at the Embassy, as well as others such as the Honorary Consuls Adi Rosenfeld and Eival Gilady, Chairman of the Western Galilee College, Eiran Bollesl, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, Israel- Slovenia and Orel Hershkovich, and concluded with proposing a toast for friendship, health and peace.
Among the honored guests who took part in the celebration were Honorary Consul of Slovenia Adi Rosenfeld, Honorary Consul of Slovenia Eival Gilady, Dan Catarivas, President of the Israeli Federation of Bi-National Chambers of Commerce and Industry; Dr. Andy David - Director of the Innovation Task Force Israel MFA; Dr. Ophir Falk, Foreign Policy Advisor at the Prime Minister Office; Adi Barouh, Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister Office; Dr. Laurence Weinbaum, Director General, World Jewish Congress Israel; Boaz Waksman Chairman of Ophir Tours, Stanley Morais, El Al Acting Director of International Affairs, and many foreign Ambassadors and business leaders.
The Staff of www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government, people, and Embassy of Slovenia on the occasion of their National Day, 32 years of independence.
Steven Aiello Founder--DebateforPeace
Photo credits: Silvia Graciela Golan
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On Tuesday June 6th, 2023, on a lovely spring evening, diplomats, military personnel, Israeli government officials, Israelis of Swedish descent and key figures in the tech industry were hosted by Ambassador of Sweden, Mr. Erik Ullenhag and his wife Maria Velasco in their beautiful residence in Herzliya to celebrate Sweden's 500 years of independence. The National Day of Sweden celebrates the birth of modern Sweden with the election of King Gustav Vasa in the 16th century, which set the stage for Sweden to emerge as an independent modern nation out of the Danish-dominated Kalmar Union.
Upon entering, guests were welcomed by the Ambassador and his wife, who were accompanied by Ukrainian officials in an act of solidarity with the people of Ukraine. Inside the house, guests encountered a modern demonstration of Israeli-Swedish friendship and mutual innovation – a robotic arm, manufactured by the Swedish ABB corporation in Israel, lifting up the flag of Sweden on one side and the flag of Israel on the other. The celebration was a delightfully Swedish affair – With ABBA music playing in the background throughout the evening by a band that was located on the roof, meatballs and Swedish cider served front and center, and flowers bearing the colors of the Swedish flag dotting the courtyard and parlor.
The ceremonial part of the evening began with the Swedish national anthem, followed by the anthem of Israel, and concluded with the anthem of the European Union, performed by the talented Keren Eilenberg accompanied by Doron Mizrahi on guitar. Following the anthems, Ambassador Ullenhag gave his remarks and welcomed all guests to his residency for the national day celebrations and the golden jubilee of King Carl XVI Gustaf. Ullenhag mentioned the sincere friendship between Sweden and Israel, emphasized Sweden's deep commitment to Israel's security, and condemned the recent missile attacks, noting that he witnessed their impacts while visiting youth being treated for post-trauma by animal therapy methods.
The Ambassador called for a two- state solution living peacefully side by side. He thanked those who are involved in the work of promoting peace, gender equality, human rights, and women's rights in particular, as a true feminist who strives for a better, more equal society. Ambassador Ullenhag also expressed his gratitude for the people dedicating their lives for the remembrance of the holocaust, as the worst crime against humanity in history, and in the fight against anti-Semitism. He continued thanking those who are strengthening Swedish-Israeli ties in the academic and the technological fields, ties that go back to Israel's early years, when Sweden sent the largest number of volunteers, approximately 50,000, to join the Kibuzzim movement to help build the country. Ullenhag concluded his speech by thanking all of the Israelis who enjoy Swedish goods such as IKEA, Spotify, Abba music, Astrazeneca and more.
Ambassador Ullenhag’s speech was followed by a speech by the honorary guest May Golan, a minister without a portfolio at the Prime Minister office, who spoke on behalf of the Israeli government. In her speech, Ms. Golan stressed the similarities amongst the two nations as they are both vivid democracies with many shared values as demonstrated, for example, by the recent visits of the two countries' Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Israel and Sweden respectively. Minister Golan also emphasized the Kibbutz Tech program, which aims to bring Swedish youth for internships at Israeli high-tech companies in order for them to be impressed by the Israeli innovation environment. Mrs. Golan concluded her speech by expressing Israel's appreciation for Sweden's contribution, as the president of the EU, to the improvement in the stance of Israel over the past few years. Golan also expressed gratitude for Sweden's activities with regard to the preservation of the memory of the Holocaust and the struggle against anti-Semitism, as well as its successful presidency of the IHRA – the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. On behalf of the Israeli government, Minister Golan wished the Kingdom of Sweden continued prosperity and success, and the strengthening of friendship between our two countries.
Guests mingled inside and outside the elegant residence, enjoying a delicious buffet and a selection of beverages. Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Ambassador Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ariel Goldstein (Senior Counsel of MK Benjamin Netanyahu); Tali Eshkoli, Eurovision Israel producer; Roneh Aharon, CEO of ABB technologies (Israel Branch) and others members of the company, who were responsible for the aforementioned robotic arm, Attorney Shashi Gaz and Angela Scharf and Doris Sperer from the "Women Wage Peace Organization" .
The event was sponsored by CEVT, IKEA, Vinnova, ABB, Surgical Science, SKF, SOL, SAS, Volvo, Kopparberg, and H&M.
www.diplomacy.co.il & @debateforpeace congratulates the government, people, and Embassy of Sweden winning EUROVISION and on the occasion of their National Day
Steven Aiello Founder--DebateforPeace https://debateforpeace.org
Photo credits: Silvia Graciela Golan
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