Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 17 April (BelTA) – The Belarusian-Israeli relations have reached a qualitatively new level, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to Israel Vladimir Skvortsov said when speaking at the 62nd annual meeting of countrymen in Ben Shemen, BelTA learned from the diplomatic mission.

Organized by the Israeli Association of Immigrants from Belarus, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the event attracted several thousand people. “In 40 days sharp, on 26 May, the Belarusian-Israeli diplomatic relations will pass the mark of 25 years. But the history of friendly relations between the two peoples and good-neighborliness in the Belarusian land began much earlier. It counts over six centuries. Today our interstate relations have reached a qualitatively new level. They represent the intertwining of history, politics, economy, culture, and science,” Ambassador Vladimir Skvortsov said.

Vladimir Skvortsov gave a positive assessment of the contribution of Israel's Belarusian community to the development of the interstate dialogue.

The meeting participants were welcomed by Israeli Minister of Aliyah and Immigrant Absorption Sofa Landver. She also drew the attention to the anniversary of the Belarusian-Israeli relations and stressed the importance of the abolition of the visa regulations and preserving the Israeli diplomatic presence in Minsk.

In a specially equipped “ambassadorial corner” decorated with national symbols the Ambassador and embassy staff met with countrymen to discuss the pressing topics of interaction and to consult on consular issues.

Visitors to the “ambassadorial corner” had an opportunity to taste the dishes of the Belarusian cuisine. Representatives of the Belavia air carrier and local travel agents arranged a presentation of the modern Belarus and its tourism opportunities.

The meeting also featured the music and dance groups who performed the pieces from of Belarusian and Jewish works. Local business representatives organized a sale of food products made in Belarus.