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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.
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 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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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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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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