Israeli Ambassador given warm welcome in Gorey
CIVIC RECEPTION HELD IN HONOUR OF DISTINGUISHED GUEST
■ The Israeli Ambassador Zion Evrony signs the distinguished visitor's book in the Market House, watched by his wife Rita, Town Clerk Ger Mackey and Mayor Colin Webb.
THE PROMOTION of trade and tourism links between Ireland and Israel were high on the agenda during the visit of Israeli Ambassador Zion Evrony to Co. Wexford last Friday.
The Ambassador and his wife Rita were welcomed to Gorey by Mayor Colin Webb, who brought him up to the Council Chamber in Gorey's Market House for a Civic Reception, attended by County Manager Eddie Breen, Town Clerk Ger Mackey and other County Council officials, Councillors and invited guests.
Mayor Webb noted that it was the first time the Israeli flag had flown in the Market House chamber, and hoped the visit would mark a desire for strong links between Gorey and Israel.
Ambassador Evrony said the goal of his visit was to promote trade and tourism between Israel and County Wexford. He noted that two Irish companies, one in Wexford and another in Waterford, had recently been bought by Israeli companies, and employ almost 1,000 people, with plans for expansion.
Speaking afterwards, he said that during his visit, he 'discovered that there is a real and great potential, especially for increasing trade, strengthening economic ties and forming new business partnerships which can create many jobs in this area.'
'During my visit, I was touched by the warm hospitality and friendliness of those I met, and I found genuine interest in stronger economic and cultural ties with Israel,' he added.
A round table discussion followed the civic reception, during which the potential for developing cultural, tourism and business links were discussed.
'I really appreciate the very warm welcome and the Mayor's kind words welcoming me, and the genuine interest in finding practical ways to increase trade with Israel, to increase tourism from Israel to Gorey and from Gorey to Israel, and to further cultural ties and the exchange of artists and art students,' said the Ambassador.
He was presented with a Paul Carter work of art depicting a scene from Courtown, while he presented the Town Council with a decorative plate from Israel. He was also invited to sign the distinguished visitors' book.
