Hundreds of people arrived at the home of Italy’s Ambassador to Israel to take part in the celebration of the National Day of Italy. Naturally, an event on this scale impacts the environment, and cooperation between the Italian Embassy in Israel and KKL-JNF led to the planting of 120 trees, in order to balance the carbon footprint created by such an event.
Mr. Meir Spiegler, the KKL-JNF Director General, handed HE Mr. Francesco Maria Talo, the Italian Ambassador to Israel, a certificate of recognition for contributing trees that were planted in Baram Forest in northern Israel, a forest that has been rehabilitated and developed with support from Friends of KKL Italy.
In his opening greetings at the reception, Ambassador Talo sincerely thanked the many guests who had come to take part in the 70th anniversary of the Italian Republic, among them embassy personnel from many countries, leaders of the Jewish community in Italy and citizens of Italy living in Israel. “Italy and Israel are young democracies that are united by the Mediterranean Sea, not separated by it, and I have no doubt,” said Talo, “that, thanks to our deep roots, we have a promising future.”
Ms. Stefania Giannini, the Italian Minister of Education, enumerated three reasons for celebrating the special evening: the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Italian Republic, when the democratic state was formed; the signing of an agreement between Italy and Israel for scientific and technological cooperation; and the presentation of a copy of the first Italian translation of the Talmud to the President of Israel, Mr. Reuven Rivlin. “There is true friendship between our countries, not only on the government level but also between the people,” said Minister Giannini.
The government of Israel was represented at the event by the Minister of National Infrastructure, Energy and Water, Mr. Yuval Steinitz, who said, “It seems to me that all Israelis are in love with Italy, which is no wonder, since it is a very beautiful country with mountains, lakes and wonderful beaches. Relations between Italy and Israel are better than ever, and we are conducting joint ventures in many areas, in education, science, technology, water, energy and defense.”
The event was emceed by journalist and television personality Mr. Danny Kushmaro, who said that he “admires everything that is made in Italy, especially if it has a motor.” The guests were entertained with a performance of Italian folklore, an exhibition of Italian products and, needless to say, delectable Italian cuisine.
“This evening is yet another expression of the uniqueness of KKL-JNF’s activities for the benefit of the environment,” said Mr. Meir Spiegler. “Since its inception, KKL-JNF has collaborated with many countries, and the organization’s experts are world-renowned in their fields.”
Just a few weeks ago, an agreement of cooperation was signed between KKL-JNF and the National Forest Service of Italy. KKL-JNF Chief Forester Dr. David Brand, who also took part in the event, stressed the importance of this cooperation. “Climate changes are endangering ecosystems in Italy, Israel and all over the world. There is vital significance in the cooperation of our countries and in sharing our knowledge, so that we may succeed in dealing with the challenges before us.”