The Embassy of Israel in Nigeria on Monday, 14th May, 2018 celebrated with the Embassy of the United States of America on the opening of her office in the historic city of Jerusalem.
A statement by the Israeli embassy in Nigeria recalled that this new arrangement was signed and announced by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on the 22nd of February, 2018 after President Donald Trump made his announcement in December, 2017.
Nadav D. Goren, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Israel in Nigeria noted in the statement that Jerusalem is a city that has history dated back to over 3000 years and has survived several invasions and is known to be the location where the famous King Solomon built the temple and is the present location of the “Dome of the Rock”. It is presently home to over 8 million Jews of different faiths and people of diverse backgrounds and races.
The opening of the office in Jerusalem was ushered in by a gala night, a day before and in attendance were President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka, her husband, Jared Kushner, and other American dignitaries. The event held at Israel’s Foreign Ministry. Israel and the United States share a multi-dimensional friendship which is built on progress, peace and freedom. These values have reflected in the areas of agriculture, technology, innovation, security and tourism. Although a very small nation, Israel has been a strong influence on the United States with the introduction of the US-Israel Free Trade Agreement signed in 1985 which was the first of its kind signed by the United States. Since its entry into force, trade between the countries has steadily increased, reaching $39 billion in 2017.
According to Goren, the decision by President Trump has halted America’s ties with Palestine because his announcement was received with mixed emotions across the world. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu applauded Trump’s decision saying it was timely as it coincided with Israel’s celebration of 70 years as a nation.
“Although the conflict between Israel and Palestine has been on since 1948, the nation of Israel seeks to live peacefully with other nations and wishes the best for everyone,” Goren said.
