L’hitraot Shmuel Ben-Shmuel
AFTER four years in the role, outgoing Israeli ambassador to Australia Shmuel Ben-Shmuel told the NSW Jewish community's leaders how sad he is to be heading home.
AFTER four years in the role, outgoing Israeli ambassador to Australia Shmuel Ben-Shmuel told the NSW Jewish community’s leaders how sad he is to be heading home.
“It is a bitter-sweet experience to speak to you for the last time as the ambassador for Israel,” Ben-Shmuel said at his official NSW farewell last Wednesday night. “I’m sad to leave the Australian Jewish community.
“As ambassador to Australia, it has been an honour to further the relationship between our two countries.”
Praising Australian youth movements for “displaying a true interest and passion for the Israeli political system”, he said, “I believe that because of your investment in young people, we will see a new generation of exuberant and articulate Zionists.”
Hailing the Australian Jewish community as “the warmest in all the world”, he reflected, “I will never forget the warmth with which you welcomed me to Australia. Nor will I forget your support, hard work and good heart.”
NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (JBOD) president Jeremy Spinak paid tribute to Ben-Shmuel, describing him as “a true gentleman”.
“The relations between the current Australian government and the government of Israel have never been better,” Spinak said.
“The embassy and yourself have had a lot to do with that.”
JOSHUA LEVI
comments