Israeli envoy: Will carry back beautiful memories of Bengaluru

Bengaluru: The term of the incumbent Consul General of Israel in Bengaluru Yael Hashavit is coming to an end this month, and while she looks forward to getting back home after a five year stint outside her country, she said she would miss Bengaluru, the colours and warmth of India.

“I came to Bengaluru one year eight months ago. Time just flew and now I have to leave. I will carry back beautiful memories of Bengaluru and its people. While my predecessor had lot of administrative work at hand; from setting up the Consulate in Bengaluru at a new location and recruiting staff, I was lucky that I could concentrate on the work and accomplish some of the targets here. I can’t say that I finished them all but we have done some amazing projects with the government in the fields of science and technology, agriculture and water,” she said.

The Israeli diplomat added that she took some time to understand the Indian way of doing business and it was initially “overwhelming.”Being honest and straightforward always helped, she said. “The ministers opened their doors to us and I felt very welcome,” said Yael.

Speaking about the Indo Israeli relationship she said that both nations are birthplaces of two of the most ancient cultures of the world and share the same values, principles and long legacies.

“Israelis love India, and this country is one of the most desirable destinations for Israelis, who come here, not only to travel but to explore and enjoy the Indian culture, and colourful lifestyle. It was this bond between our nations that showed when our Prime Minister; Benyamin Netanyahu addressed Prime Minister Modi as a close friend. Prime Minister Modi was personally accompanied by our Prime Minister during his three day visit, which is unprecedented during any state visit to Israel,” said Yael. She said she would always remember the colours and warmth of India.

“India is an experience to all my senses. People here are not afraid of colours. There’s lot of respect for tradition and heritage is an important part of the Indian people. As a diplomat I feel that though diplomacy is a complex mission, which involves many areas and requires commendable expertise in all of them but at the end of the day, it is all about connecting people. Diplomacy is about friendship, mutual appreciation and partnership between two peoples. I will carry back with me the warmth of India and its people,” she says.