IDE President Yoram Dvash: "The relations between Israeli and Indian diamantaires started a long time before diplomatic relations were established between the countries. Our relations are strong and based on shared, solid business interests."
The IDE held a Diwali festival celebration for the Indian diamond community in the presence of IDE President Yoram Dvash, IDI Chairman Shmuel Schnitzer, Israel Diamond Manufacturers Association President Kobi Korn, Diamond Controller Shmuel Mordechai, India's Ambassador to Israel, Paven Kapoor (pictured below), leading members of the local diamond trade and representatives of the Indian diamond community.
"People forget that the relations between Israeli and Indian diamantaires started a long time before diplomatic relations were established between the countries. Our relations are strong and based on shared, solid business interests. We appreciate your commercial abilities and your willingness to learn about our culture and way of life. We really appreciate your friendship, and I wish you a happy Diwali."
IDI Chairman Shmuel Schnitzer also spoke about the importance of diamond trading relations with the Indian community. "Many Indian diamantaires come to Israel, and many Israelis go to India for trading. We are very happy to celebrate the Diwali festival with you."
Kobi Korn also spoke about his pleasure at celebrating Diwali. "This has become a tradition that we are very happy to celebrate every year."
Ambassador Paven Kapoor said it was a privilege for him to celebrate Diwali at the diamond exchange. I took over this position just a few months ago and I have learned about the importance of diamond trading between our countries. I am happy to be here and delighted to have been invited."
Shmuel Mordechai wished the Indian participants a happy Diwali.
The representative of the Indian community in India – Histesh Shah Pictured below) – said: "Diwali is the festival of lights and is similar to Channukah. We pray that Diwali will bring happiness and wealth to everyone."
(Courtesy of the Israel Diamond Institute)
