|
The connection between the State of Israel and the Republic of Guatemala began with the founding of Israel, when Guatemala was the second country to recognize the State of Israel, and 70 years after, the second country to return its embassy to Jerusalem. The two countries share a deep friendship, based on common values and mutual respect, alongside diverse economic, cultural and tourism ties. Thousands of Guatemalans visit Israel’s Christian holy sites every year, alongside thousands of Israelis who arrive in Guatemala to witness the immense natural and cultural beauty, including visiting Lake Atitlan, appearing on this commemorative stamp. Today we celebrate 75 years of friendship between the two countries, a friendship that we continue to nurture and expand, for the benefit of both our peoples, on the shores of Lake Kinneret and Lake Atitlan. Yiftah Curiel, Ambassador of Israel to Guatemala In 2022, Israel and Guatemala signed a Free Trade Agreement, with the aim of boosting trade and commerce between the two countries. Furthermore, the Israel development agency’s (MASHAV) largest project in Latin America is located in Guatemala: A technological demonstration center in which Israel’s experience in agriculture and water management are shared with local Guatemalan experts. The two lakes that appear on this commemorative stamp – Kinneret and Atitlan – symbolize the friendship between our two nations, from the biblical context to the natural beauty, from commerce and pilgrimage to tourism and culture. To all philatelic items issued on December 2023
|