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- Written by Silvia G. Golan
On Tuesday, September 19th, 2023, the Embassy of Nepal in Israel held a celebration of Nepal Constitution Day in Herzliya. Upon arrival, guests greeted by the Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, H.E. Ms. Kanta Rizal standing in front of a beautiful banner showing some of Nepal’s highest mountain peaks decorated with traditional flowers. Before the ceremony, guests enjoying Hors d'oeuvres on small tables covered by red table cloths, with small Nepal and Israel flags on top.
After a brief introduction by Mr. Arjun Ghimire, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy, the national anthems were playing and a Nepalese traditional candle lighting ceremony was held, followed by a promotion video of the country which showed some of the faces and views of the beautiful Nepal and its people.
First speaker was Mr. Nadav Ben-Yehuda, who serves as a Senior Advisor to the Embassy and the Chairman of Israel-Nepal Chamber of Commerce. In his speech, Ben-Yehuda engaged the audience with the trivia question of who was the first to reach Everest's peak? As Ben-Yehuda shared, on 29 May 1953, Sir Edmund Percival Hillary KG and Sherpa mountaineer Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest and that we can learn that we should never do missions like this alone.
For the question of who added 2 feet to the 29,000 height, that was Radhanath Sikdar who was an Indian mathematician best known for calculating the height of Mount Everest. Ben- Yehuda continurted by sharing his personal climbing experience in Nepal, specifically Mount Annapurna, and perhaps breaking the record of the highest chess game ever being played.
The speech was followed by a beautiful traditional Maruni dance by two female dancers wearing traditional Nepalese customs. Ambassador Rizal then began her formal remarks by sharing that she is deeply honored and privileged to welcome the guests and that this day marks the anniversary of a new constitution, which was promulgated via Constitution Assembly on the 20th September 2015. On this day, the entire nation celebrates this day with the full spirit of unity.
The Ambassador elaborated that the new constitution embraces the principles of republicanism, federalism, secularism and inclusiveness, and that it frames the fundamental political principles, procedures and duties of the government and guarantees the human rights of its citizens.
Considering Nepal’s diverse culture and traditions, which vary from one region of the nation to another, the constitution has recognized all the local languages spoken within Nepal as national languages. In this fashion, since Nepal enjoys a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions blended to form a national identity, the Ambassador explained that the Nepalese celebrate a wide variety of festivals that turn later to family gatherings.
Nepal is the country with many of the religious sites for the Hindus, Buddhists and Kirats, some of them has been regarded as the world heritages sites. Despite that, as the Ambassador stressed, Nepal has adopted religious secularism by the new constitution.
Then, the Ambassador focused on the relationship between Nepal and Israel, established in 1960. She said that despite the topographic and climate variations, hosting the highest and the lowest points on the earth respectively, Nepal and Israel share a unique bond and a lot of similarities in actions.
It started when Nepal, an ancient country nestled between two great Asian civilizations ,and Israel, a newly established country in the Middle East with ancient history, decided to establish diplomatic ties that turned out to be a milestone in international relations of both countries and people.
It continued with Israel’s support to train and educate Nepali farmers how to use new technology to boost agriculture production, and with Israel’s remarkable assistance during the devastating 2015’s earthquake in Nepal, through Israel’s assistance to Nepal during Covid-19 pandemic.
Till date, Nepal is well loved by Israelis and vice versa with deep respect for eternal faith and trust between the two countries that doubtless go beyond time. Thus, The Ambassador thanked and expressed gratitude on behalf of Nepal for all hands of cooperation provided by Israel for the development of Nepal.
The Ambassador concluded by expressing confidence that in the days ahead the bilateral relations will grow stronger. She thanked the Minister and the Excellency Ambassadors, Senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, fellow Nepali compatriots and other distinguished guests for joining the celebration.
Next speaker was Israel’s Minister of Diaspora and the fight against anti-Semitism and Minister of Social Equality Mr. Amichai Shikli, who shared how pleased and honored he is to represent the government and the people of Israel in congratulating the government and the people of Nepal on the occasion of its Constitution Day.
He mentioned that Nepal was the first country in South Asia to recognize the State of Israel and to establish diplomatic relations with it, followed by the first visit of its Prime Minister, B.P. Koirala, who met with then Israeli Prime Minister, David Ben- Gurion, in the Summer of 1960.
Just two years ago it was the 60 years anniversary of strong diplomatic relations between the two countries consisting of fruitful cooperation across many areas such as agriculture, health, education, tourism, security and humanitarian aid.
The minister elaborated on MASHAV, and participation in the "Learn & Earn" agricultural training program which has already successfully trained some three thousand "graduates" that have since returned to Nepal equipped with unprecedented knowledge and experience in modern Israeli farming technology.
He also mentioned hundreds and thousands of Israelis have come to Nepal to volunteer in programs for the development of Nepal and some simply as tourists to partake in treks throughout this phenomenal country, forming strong connections with local Nepalese. He predicted that 2023 may break the record for the highest number of Israeli tourists visiting Nepal.
Similar to Ambassador Rizal, Minister Shikli also mentioned the assistance Israel provided to Nepal after the terrible earthquake and during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He also appreciated and admired the care-giving services generously offered by Nepalese citizens to elderly population here in Israel, and that they are being welcomed to Israeli society with the same warmth and caring that they provide our elderly population.
Ironically, as the Minister noted, Nepal and Israel are also connected through geographically opposite extremes – Nepal is of course famous for having the highest mountain in the world, Everest, and Israel, for its part, is famous for having the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea.
Last, Minister Shikli mentioned the Nepalese football player who joined the Israeli women's team known as SAMBA. He concluded his remarks with warm wishes for a future of peace, stability and economic prosperity and that the friendship between the countries will grow ever stronger as each day goes by.
Following the wine toasting by the Ambassador and the Minister, the guests enjoyed the traditional dishes, with the ambience of festive lights and decorations.
Among the distinguished guests were Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affair; Rafael Harpaz, Deputy Director General of the Asia Pacific Department of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ilan Nir, Honorary Consul of Nepal; Stephen Abrahams of the Ministry of National Infrastructures Energy and Water Resources; Ariel Goldshtein, Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister Office; and many foreign Ambassadors, militars, business leaders and members of the Nepal community in Israel.
The Staff of www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government, people, and Embassy of Nepal on the occasion of their Constitution Day. ! NAMASTE !
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On Thursday, September 14th, 2023, the Embassy of Slovakia held a celebration of the Day of Constitution of the Slovak Republic on the beautiful roof-top of Rothschild 1 tower in Tel-Aviv. The guests were greeted by the Slovakian ambassador on the background of a beautiful banner showing the scenery of Slovakia, and enjoyed Hors d'oeuvres that were served together with traditional Slovakian beverages.
The ceremonial part started with the anthems of Slovakia and Israel, followed by a speech by the Slovakian ambassador, who started by thanking the guests for joining the celebration, marking 30 years anniversary of the republic and the relations with Israel.
According to him, an important milestone in this period was 2004, When Slovakia joined the European Union and NATO. It made Slovakia an integral part of the European community and the Trans- Atlantic family, sharing common values such as freedom, democracy, human rights and rule of law.
The Ambassador commented that unfortunately, this dream has been denied to Ukraine by the aggressive Russian invasion, and that Slovakia continues its support of the Ukrainian people in their fights for sovereignty, freedom and peace.
The Ambassador continued with congratulating Israel on its 75 years anniversary and the dynamic and bilateral relations with Slovakia, as reflected by the partnership between the two parliaments. He also elaborated on the recent high-profile visits to Israel and Slovakia, which have strengthen the dialogue and have improved the relations between the two countries: in March the Prime-Minister of Slovakia visited Israel, followed by the Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs participation at GlobSec forum in Bratislava, and a recent visit of The President of Israel in Slovakia the week before.
The Ambassador emphasized the strong dialogue between the two countries, which doesn’t rely on politics only but also on economy, tech, innovation, science, education, military, and tourism. Another component of the dialogue is social, as reflected by the opening of the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem in 2021, which now has a branch at the embassy in Tel Aviv.
The Ambassador also mentioned that this year marks two years anniversary of the Abraham Accords, which have transformed the region significantly, and that Slovakia is committed to the Middle East peace process.
The Ambassador concluded by thanking the guests again and congratulated Shana nova Umetuka, happy new Jewish year, as Rosh-Hashanah was celebrated the day after.
Next speech was delivered by the guest of honor Rabbi Yizhak Shapira, who spoke on behalf of the Slovak parliament. Rabbi Shapiro shared that standing here today, just before Rosh-Hashanah, the Jewish new year, is an emotional moment for him as his sentiments to the Slovak republic and Israel are both very strong.
He mentioned that his roots are going five generations back, when his great grandfather Chatam Sofer established a long rabbinical dynasty, which has prevailed through World War 2 till this day in Jerusalem. Rabbi Shapira expressed the deep commitment of the Slovak leadership to Jewish history. It is reflected, as he elaborated, by the frequent meetings he holds with ambassadors, diplomats, ministers and prime-ministers, and by the government- supported organization he established- ESJF, which preserves and protects 12,000 abandoned Jewish cemeteries.
The Rabbi also delivered a message from the President of Israel His Excellency Yizhak Herzog, who visited Slovakia the week before, asserting that the relationship has always been very good, and that his recent visit has even “contributed to the relationship a few steps forward”.
Rabbi Shapira mentioned that in light of the upcoming holiday, it is appropriate to pray for God almighty and to point out that despite the challenging national dispute in Israel nowadays, the nation will overcome it. He added that it is time to pray for an internal peace as well as peace with our neighbors and around the world. Rabbi Shapira concluded with “God bless the world, God bless Israel, and God bless Slovakia. Shana nova Umetuka, Gmar Chatima Tova, and a year of peace and unity to Israel and Slovakia.
The ceremony was concluded with a speech by Ms. Erika Shpitz. Ms. Shpitz noted that Hitachdut Yotzei Czechoslovakia, The Association of Czechoslovakian Expatriates in Israel maintains and has always maintained warm contact with the representatives of the Czechoslovak Embassy in the past, and in the wake of the separation - with both embassies.
She shared her satisfaction of using the library in the Embassy, as well as the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem, which presents special exhibitions of contemporary art. Ms. Shpitz thanked the ambassador and his team for visiting the northern branch in Haifa, and mentioned the student exchange programs between the two countries especially in the fields of medicine and veterinary.
Ms, Spitz mentioned the Memorial for Czechoslovak victims of the holocaust earlier this year at the Yaar Hakdoshim, and expressed her hope to gather at the Slovak Forest in the future.
Among the distinguished guests were: Mr. Gil Haskel, Chief of State Protocol at the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Jakub Urik, the director of the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem ; Mr. Daniel Meron, Deputy Director General; Mr. Joe Pickel. Honorary Consul Slovakia, Israel Slovakia Chamber of CommerceI; World Diamond Exchange president Boaz Moldavski and his wife Ayala; Ariel Goldshtein - Senior Advisor to the Chief of Staff at the Prime Minister Office; and many foreign Ambassadors, militars, business leaders and members of the Slovak community in Israel
The Staff of www.diplomacy.co.il congratulates the government, people, and Embassy of Slovak Republic on the occasion of their National & Army Day
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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
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Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, H.E. Mr. Fe'ni Kouakou
President Isaac Herzog today (Tuesday) received the diplomatic credentials of new ambassadors to Israel from Côte d'Ivoire, Peru, Cyprus, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, and Brazil, in a series of official ceremonies at the President's Residence in Jerusalem.
Upon their arrival, each ambassador was welcomed by an IDF honor guard and the playing of the national anthem of their country. After presenting their diplomatic credentials, the President met with each ambassador and their delegation, after which they signed the official guest book. Each ceremony was then concluded by the playing of Israel’s national anthem, “HaTikva”.
First to present his diplomatic credentials to the President this morning, was the incoming Ambassador of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, Fe'ni Kouakou. During their conversation, the President said: “The relations between our countries are excellent and we have built historic cooperation that stems from the love of the Bible, the love of humanity, and the pursuit of peace. I hope that together we can advance the relations between our countries”.
The Ambassador extended an invitation on behalf of the President of Côte d'Ivoire for President Herzog to visit his country.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of the Republic of Peru, H.E. Mr. Manuel Cacho Sousa Velazquez
Second to present his diplomatic credentials to the President was Ambassador of Peru, Manuel Sousa Velazquez. The President welcomed him and said: “My three sons enjoyed traveling in your country. I had a good conversation with your President last week, and I wish you great success in your position.”
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Cyprus, H.E. Mr. Kornelios S. Korneliou
President Herzog then received the diplomatic credentials of the new Ambassador of Cyprus, Kornelios S. Korneliou. The President spoke with the Ambassador about the ongoing efforts to expand cooperation in the field of energy, and sent his warm greetings to the President of Cyprus. He also noted that the strategic relations between Israel and Cyprus were an example for the region.
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of the United Kingdom, H.E. Mr. Simon Christopher Walters
Later, the incoming Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Simon Walters, presented his diplomatic credentials to the President. The President welcomed him and said: “Britain has an important standing in the Middle East. There are many areas for our governments to discuss – chief among them the issue of Iran.”
The Ambassador emphasized: “Iran is not only a threat to the Middle East, but a threat to the entire world. The British Government's position regarding Iran has been very firm.”
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of France, H.E. Mr. Frederic Journes
Next, the new Ambassador of France, Frederic Journes, presented his diplomatic credentials to the President. The President emphasized: “The challenges facing our country, among them Hezbollah's activity in Lebanon and Iran's refusal to cooperate with IAEA inspectors, must be a red alert for your government.”
The President said, “I had the pleasure of receiving New Year (Rosh Hashanah) greetings from your President – please convey to him my sincere thanks. There is a deep and historical connection between our countries and peoples,” and recalled, “my late great grandfather was the Chief Rabbi of Paris.”
The Ambassador noted: “The relationship between our countries is like no other. It is an intellectual and strategic friendship.”
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Ireland , H.E. Mrs. Sonya McGuinness
He was followed by the incoming Ambassador of the Republic of Ireland, Sonya McGuinness, who presented her diplomatic credentials to the President. President Herzog congratulated the Ambassador and said: “Ireland and Irish culture are deeply respected in Israel, and you can do much to promote relations between our peoples.”
Photo: President Herzog with Ambassador of Brazil, H.E. Mr. Frederico Salomao Duque Estrada Meyer
Last to present his diplomatic credentials today, was the new Ambassador of Brazil, Frederico Meyer. The President noted: “Brazil is a popular and beloved country among the Israeli public.” He added, “We would be happy to host your leadership in Israel and assist in promoting trade and diplomatic relations between our countries.”
Photo credits: Haim Zach (GPO)
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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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