The first World Humanitarian Summit opened on Tuesday morning 16 Iyar in Istanbul, Turkey, under the auspices of United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. For the first time in five years, a senior Israeli delegation, headed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director-General Dr. Dore Gold, arrived on an official visit to Turkey to present the humanitarian aid provided by Israel around the world.

The first World Humanitarian Summit gathers together high-level policy makers to raise awareness, contribution and commitment on behalf of humanitarian activities in times of natural disasters and conflicts. Dr. Gold inaugurated the Israeli pavilion at the exhibition, which displays the activities of the Israeli government, the IDF, the national emergency authority and civilian social organizations. Israel has always been one of the quickest to react and provide an effective response in times of crisis.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Dr.Gold said: “Israel’s humanitarian involvement in the international arena reflects the ancient Jewish value of Tikun Olam, which guides Israeli teams to arrive immediately to disaster areas – from Turkey to Haiti – to offer assistance.”

The Head of MASHAV – Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, Ambassador Gil Haskel: “All nations of the world gathered here to jointly increase their global commitment in face of humanitarian disasters. Israel is proud to be part of these efforts and to stand at the forefront of international aid offered to countries facing disaster events, responding immediately to any humanitarian challenge.”

Photo: Dr. Dore Gold, MFA Director General and Ambassador Gil Haskel, during the inauguration ceremony, Istanbul

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem/Photo: MASHAV)