By Beatrice Asamani Savage
Accra, Jan. 9, GNA – Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Miriam Haskel says it is important for her country to strengthen ties with Ghana, which it deems the heart of Africa.
“Ghana stands as a spiritual, cultural, and economic heart in Africa,” she noted, explaining that “strengthening the bridge between our communities and countries is not just a diplomatic objective but a personal mission for me.”
Mrs Haskel was addressing some members of the Ghanaian-Israeli community, at a reception hosted by the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Gilad Roey, and his wife, Nitza, at their official residence.
The Ghana-Israeli Council facilitated the event, attended by Archbishop Duncan Williams, presiding Archbishop and General Overseer of the Action Chapel International, with his wife Rosa, Ghana’s international reggae icon, Rocky Dawuni, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Mr Sam George, the President of the Institute of Public Relations, Madam Esther Cobbah, among others.
The leadership of the Council, Rev Kennedy Okuson, Rev Dr Lawrence Tetteh, Rev Dr John Ghartey, Bishop Dusan Pobee and Scotia Eyram Akar, attended the event.
Mrs Haskel, who led the Israeli delegation to attend the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama, on Tuesday, January 7, described her participation as a significant milestone in Ghana-Israel relations.
The visit also marked her first official overseas mission since her appointment two months ago.
She praised Ghana for its democratic stability and commended the country for its consistent peaceful political transition from an incumbent government to victorious opposition parties, noting that the democratic maturity served as an example for many nations.
Ghana’s strategic role was also a stabilising force on the African continent. “We do want to create a stronger bond and a stronger friendship and a real collaboration,” she emphasised.
Mrs Haskel reiterated Israel’s interest in enhancing collaboration in areas such as security, cultural exchange, and economic development.
She also expressed Israel’s readiness to share its expertise in technology, agriculture, and innovation to support Ghana’s development agenda.
Mrs Haskel expressed her gratitude for Ghana’s unwavering support for Israel during challenging times, commending Ghanaians for their prayers and support during Israel’s recent conflicts.
Such acts of solidarity resonated deeply with Israelis on a personal and national level, she explained.
Mrs Haskel referenced the longstanding historical and biblical ties between the two nations, describing Ghana as “a key partner in Israel’s vision for deeper engagement with Africa.”
On Israel’s domestic challenges, Mrs Haskel recounted harrowing stories of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, describing them as the “worst massacre in Israel’s history.”
She said such atrocities had strengthened Israel’s resolve to ensure its safety and security, while seeking global partnerships to combat terrorism and promote peace.
“The Ghanaian people have shown true friendship through their prayers and support for us during these trying times.
“This bond of love and solidarity inspires us to continue building a future of hope and collaboration.”
The Deputy Foreign Minister invoked the legacy of Golda Meir, Israel’s former Prime Minister, who championed Israel-Africa relations during her tenure.
Mrs Haskel pledged to continue Meir’s vision of mutual respect and partnership, inspired by the parallels between the struggles for liberation in Africa and Israel’s fight for its homeland.
She noted that Israel’s story of resilience and development could serve as an inspiration for Ghana and other African nations in their pursuit of growth and stability.
In 1958, Golda Meir, as Israel’s Foreign Minister, visited Ghana, to participate in the first anniversary of Ghana’s independence anniversary, leading to Ghana being the first country to establish diplomatic relations with Israel.
Ambassador Gilad, in his remarks, emphasised that Israel remained resolute in its efforts to secure the release of more than 100 hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7 attack – a priority that underscored the country’s commitment to the safety and dignity of its citizens.
He highlighted the ongoing trauma caused by the captivity of these individuals, which, he said, continued to weigh heavily on the Israeli people.
“Each one of them has a face, and those faces are very dear to us. Their continued captivity casts a shadow of darkness over our daily lives,” he said, pointing to a placard displayed at the Israeli Embassy in Accra featuring the images of the hostages.
The Ambassador called for global solidarity in the face of terrorism and urged nations to support Israel’s efforts in seeking justice and peace.
The experienced diplomat, who also attended the inauguration, described the event as historic, adding that, it was an honour for Israel to witness such a significant moment in Ghana’s political history. “Regardless of political affiliations, all Ghanaians must be proud of this achievement.”
The reception also included performances by a quartet, a prayer for continued peace and collaboration by Bishop Dick Essandoh of Action Chapel, and Rocky Dawuni’s musical tribute to Jerusalem as an interfaith city.
GNA