Great Holidays – religious or secular - is always a large crowd of people, and therefore an increased risk.

I guess you remember situations where inaction of law enforcement bodies caused mass disorder or even human casualties. For the last two years’ situation in Ukraine changed, but often citizen themselves take the role of law enforcement bodies.

Today police leadership informs, that all security measures are taken and they promise to keep the order. As for MIA information, 100 thousand policeman and national guard officers will work on the streets of Ukrainian cities. It is a lot, but how effective?

Yearly to Jerusalem millions of tourists and pilgrims from various countries of the world. Easter is different story. Here chances of some radical events rise by several orders. But inside you will not feel any sign of threat, and will not see straight lines of police. Only separate patrols. Jerusalem is guarded quietly. First of all, for the last six years’ city uses wide video surveillance system, that prevents not only terrorist threat but even basic pickpocketing. Secondly Jerusalem security starts at the entrance to city. Law Enforcers of Holy town work on preventing of any contingencies. Town is filled with police in civil. Besides, everyone knows, that almost every terrorist in Jerusalem or any other Israel town “automatically” becomes a suicide. If he is even fast enough to do something at all.

The areas of maximum accumulation of believers - near the Wailing Wall or the Temple of the Holy Sepulcher – are serviced by police, army, doctors, engineers and special forces. And there is absolutely no feeling that you are in some sort of a guarded environment. It is more like the feeling of safety. And of course Israelis are used to attention to situation around them. “Enemy will not pass” – this is about Israel nowadays. That’s why during mass holidays tourists, pilgrims, and basic citizen are not afraid of mass events and can feel themselves in safety.

Greetings, friends!

I hope you all feel good today) While all are coming to life after Easter Sunday, I want to talk about interesting Easter traditions of different peoples.
In Ukraine, traditionally the first Monday after Easter is called “watering” (Polyval’nyi Ponedilok): on this day it is customary to douse each other and oneself with water “to wash away the winter,” everything bad and old. Of course, on Monday boys douse girls. In some regions of Ukraine it was considered a bad sign if the girl was not doused on this day. On the contrary, in other regions you could “pay off” from these water treatments with the help of Easter eggs - pysanky. In Western Ukraine, a traditional dousing transformed with a modern twist, and now it is accepted to give perfumes to girls and women. The same tradition exists among our neighbors – the Poles.

Also this day is called “drawing Monday” (“Volochyl’nyi Ponedilok”). It is for that reason that you have thought about: on Monday after Easter people are used to visit their relatives and friends.
During the Easter celebration Italy and Spain, which are usually associated with loud laughter and endless talks, immerse into silence. Along the streets of the Italian and Spanish cities, Christian processions of believers pass. In Spain, in such processions religious brotherhoods, dressed in long robes, caps and masks, are involved. These people walk along the streets and pray for forgiveness for all the sins they have committed.

By contrast, in Finland it is customary to make noise at Easter: the whole Finn families go outside, the children take pipes and drums and loud sounds tell people that the days of mourning and grief are over. In the evening Finns light traditional bonfires which symbolize light and renewal.

It is believed that the Easter Bunny, traditional for Europe and not popular in our country, was created in Germany. At Easter, the German children look for Easter eggs (krashanky) in the grass or flowers, and the holiday symbol is a pussy-willow.
Pussy-willow is respected not only in Germany: the British believe that touching the Easter pussy-willow brings true happiness.

Passover or Easter is also one of the oldest Jewish holidays. But it is connected, as you know, with the Exodus from Egypt. I think that the Passover, as the Christian Easter, is a symbol of salvation from slavery - spiritual and physical, relationship with God and the hope for salvation. Unlike Easter, it is celebrated for seven days - from the 15th till the 21st day of the month of Nisan according the Hebrew calendar. An important element of the Passover is “Seder” - a family meal when Jews read aloud the story of the Exodus. On this evening, like in Ukraine, there must be certain food on the table: a hard-boiled egg, a chicken wing or meat on the bone, bitter celery and horseradish, sweet mixture of fruit, nuts, spices, wine and flour. And, of course, matzah - unleavened flatbread, which is reminiscent of the bread that the Jews ate, hastily leaving Egypt.
Each nation has its own traditions of Easter celebration, but they all share a common sense - the hope for better life and the belief that you can win any trouble.

Dear friends!

I warmly congratulate all Christians on bright holiday of Easter! Today is the feast of humanity, and we should forget about the obduracy and let the brightest feelings penetrate into your soul.

The resurrection of Christ is a symbol of victory of life over death, of truth over lie, a symbol of rebirth to a new life. Today, Ukraine is undergoing the period of renewal, and I believe that Ukrainians will be able to build a new country.

Israelis have the same symbol of faith in deliverance from evils - Passover, which ended yesterday. I believe that both our nations will find their blessed peace that they are so eager to have.
I sincerely wish that Easter days warm your heart with joy and warmth of communication with your family and friends, bring into your home understanding and happiness. I wish all of you bright joy, happiness and understanding!

Let your hearts fill with joy, peace, hope and faith for a happy future!

Good afternoon, friends!

You already know how fresh fruit and vegetables are grown in the Israeli desert all year round and how fish is bred. Today I would like to talk about how money is earned in Israel, and there is no desert anymore. And also I want to speak about what conditions Israeli municipalities create for the rest of citizens.

As you may recall, recently, together with the delegation of Ukrainian parliamentarians, I paid a working visit to Israel. Including the city of Ashdod, where the Ukrainian delegation got acquainted with the work of port, customs and municipality. So, Ashdod is the city in which there are no natural resources. But there are the sea and urban services, which efficiently use the resource that is available to them.

They actively began to equip the beaches of Ashdod seven years ago and now they are among the best in Israel. Either the residents from the surrounding region or the people from the capital come to relax there. The city has seven municipal beaches. At the photo below you can see the usual playgrounds on an ordinary municipal beach of Ashdod. And they are not built for the elections but according the planned program.

The rescue and first-aid stations work absolutely at all the beaches: rescuers and doctors regularly rehearse emergencies - even tsunami! It is clear that everywhere there are toilets, changing rooms, showers and water taps, sports and training grounds. What else? It is possible to reach any of the city's beaches by car, taxi, public transport or bike. Bike paths lead to each beach. And, of course, there are different types of parking lots and parking spaces for all the transport. Free. Also, on the beaches the conditions for the disabled people were created: everywhere there are tracks with special rampants for wheelchair users, and it is possible to drive up right to the water.

This year, for the second time in a row, all seven city beaches of Ashdod were awarded the international certificate of “beach” quality - the “Blue Flag”. This means that the water on the beaches meets the highest quality standards, it is perfectly safe for swimming, the beach can be accessed freely, the sand on the beach is clean, there you will not see dogs or mopeds, etc. In total there are 29 criteria, according which the rating is given.

When I talked to the mayor of Ashdod Ihiel Lasri, he said that the municipality is doing everything possible to make the coast attractive to the largest number of tourists. The sea is the only natural wealth of the city, so in Ashdod they try not to squeeze the last drop out of it (as they like to do it here in our country), and they try to make it absolutely comfortable and safe. How should we, the Ukrainians, start to understand the value of our existing natural resources?

Good day, friends!

Maybe someone haven’t heard yet, but Ukrainian coders from Zhytomyr Military Institute, named after S.Korolev won in NASA international competition Space Apps Challenge -2016: institute team have prestigious Hackathon (so called marathon for coders) event prize with their DronProtect project. Competition took place simultaneously in 170 countries around the world.

For 48 hours’ participants were solving issues connected with technologies, aeronautics, Solar system, interplanetary flights and other NASAs programs. PronProtect is project design in nomination “Don’t Crash My Drone”, where tusk was in programing of geo-informational system or operators of small drones (UAV – unmanned aerial vehicle). Such system will provide maximum information on weather conditions in operational area, provides Google positioning and defines closed for flights zone in 8km radius.

Now design of Ukrainian military applies for a grant and can be brought to life by NASA. Of course it is great and well expected for Ukrainian to participate and win in prestigious international competitions. But in my opinion government itself should be interested in such kind of design.

For example, there is wide governmental support program in Israel for high-tech development in UAV sphere. Millions dollars are allocated for their funding, specialized design bureau or even institutes are created, that work for the needs of army. No one thinks that this funds are wasted: apart from UAVs usage by both military and civil services, because of such support Israel is one of world’s leading country in high-tech sphere. Additionally, software sales bring billions to Israel budget. The math is simple: spend billions, receive security and billions back. How to explain this simple math to Ukrainian officials?

I recently wrote that the Israeli army is among the ten best armies in the world.

Especially impressive is the amount of weapons that it owns: the Israeli army has 243 combat aircraft, 4 thousand tanks, 10 thousand armored troop carriers, 300 artillery pieces, 3 frigates and 6 submarines. Military of any army has first-hand knowledge that is not enough to possess weapons; it is important to keep it in working condition, otherwise the same can happen what has happened to the Ukrainian – it will just fall apart.

Israeli Army and Air Force in particular constantly suffers due to the lack of new equipment – to serve this armada is not an easy task. Therefore, they have learned to adapt, refine and upgrade the existing equipment. It is faster and cheaper than to build a new technique. As I said earlier, thanks to this approach, in many ways, the Israelis have become world leaders in the technological modernization of equipment. All the software, that is used when upgrading, is also made in Israel.

For example, such giants as Boeing or Lockheed actively use the experience of the Israeli developers to maintain their aircraft. Such updated planes often work better than new, because all their “filling” is ultra-modern.

And “icing on the cake” is that the maintenance of a large number of completely different vessels require the same large number of spare parts. If each of them was made “by the rules”, it would take a few months and would require engagement of the developers of each aircraft and to make the missing element in the factory. Instead, Israeli engineers simply make the desired parts. In the central part of Israel at Tel Nof Airbase scientists use 3D-camera for the construction of the model of any necessary part. They just load data into the printer and a few hours later they receive the exact item, necessary to ensure the operability of the aircraft. Elementary. That is, not only the Israeli army is served this way, but also this technology brings a lot of money. I do not know what you think, but in my opinion we need two of these machines and urgently.

Today Ukraine is going through difficult times, and many Ukrainians go through these changes very emotionally.

Of course, in psychological aspect children are especially vulnerable. They inherently perceive everything only through the emotion and understand the mood in society and in the family greatly. But parents often cannot give them the attention they require, because they do not know how to react.

In Israel, for 68 years of war, they have learned to cope with such problems. As you know, a Jewish family is a phenomenon rather original and interesting. A lot of anecdotes and parables were composed about a Jewish mother. And all of them are based on real experience. The Jews have always had a lot of children - because historically, it was the condition of survival of the nation. The Jewish family attitude towards children is special: they are loved infinitely; they are allowed almost everything. We can talk much about the pros and cons of this method of education, but of course, it brings its results.

First of all, the Jewish “method” of education is based on the fact that from an early age children are told only about their merits, but not demerits. Israeli parents believe that dispraise of children leads to their inferiority complexes. Therefore, Israelis are not afraid to praise the child much. Child is praised for any reason, even for the most insignificant: painted a picture - almost Leonardo, sang a song - Caruso, wrote a poem - Pasternak. And not only parents are glad for the success of their child, but also many relatives and friends are.

At the same time Jewish education combines maximum freedom and strict limitations. This means that painting with moms’ lipstick is allowed, there is no problems with singing songs on the street, and if you bring homeless puppy from the street – everyone will only be happy, because child likes animals. But at the same time it is forbidden to push your mother to strike your father on the head. And this cannot be changed. Taking all this into account parents try to show correct behavior model with their own example, because they know, that children copy every action and word, told by their parents.

To Israelis opinion, base of every family is husband and wife – father and mother. That’s why children from the young age are taught that attention of mother to father and of father to mother is always on the first place. Relations that were built in family, child will duplicate in his own, when he grows up. That’s why children are taught what it is to be a mother, housekeeper or what are fathers duties.

In Israel you can find special courses that teach how to raise your child for him to grow up as successful and independent person, who can stand his ground.

Do you remember a picture from “Pokrovy Gates”, where Jewish boy is playing a violin, standing on balcony? He, of course is looking to the yard, where other children play, but continues practicing. Such behavior – is a bright example of how Jewish children are taught to rationally use their time. Jewish children are used to the fact that constantly doing something is normal.

Nowadays many of this ancient principals of education are used in modern methodologies. As I mentioned before, it can be questioned whether they are rational, but they for sure work. The core can be brought to something as simple as: if you want to raise confident and successful child, you should not be afraid to overlove him, but do not forget to show him the right way on your own example.

30 years have passed since accident Chernobyl accident.

Today whole world will remember the victims and pay tribute to liquidators, who gave their lives to save millions of others.

This is such a wrong word – “liquidators”. If we say, that they were cleaning up after others mistakes and irresponsibility, then yes, this people are liquidators. But for me, they are, first of all guardian angels, saviors, who shielded the world with their lives from the big evil.

The feat of these people amazes to the depths of the soul: they all knew, that if they go, only death wait for them – fast or painfully long – but no one turned back. They literally became a shield between mankind and “peaceful” maddened atom.

Today, the last survivors tell of the terrible tragedy. Not because they look for fame and acceptance, but for us to remember them. 30 years ago whole world was cruelly tricked by Soviet government, that tried to hide what happened in Chernobyl. When truth became obvious, brave leaders decided, that neither world no their citizen should not know what price was payed for liquidation of the accident. Hundreds and thousands of people – scientists, engineers, firefighters, doctors, drivers, soldiers and builders – they all were forcefully forgotten. But even today government remembers about this people only once a year: flowers are laid in memory of the victims, some words are told... And then, Chernobyl citizen, those who are still alive, on their own, undergo special treatment few times a year. After 30 years after tragedy they still fight, but now fort their own lives.

I want for new generation to remember and honor heroes, who gave their lives for them. Not only war requires bravery. We should remember that.

Eternal glory to heroes! Thank you, for saving us, for saving whole world.

Good day friends!

Over the past year it systematically becomes aware of antisemitism in Ukraine and in Europe in general: I mentioned in few posts before about such incidents and situations, and it is not getting better. Just as long as last week in Moldova 10 graves were destroyed on Jewish cemetery. In Poland a monument to "Grieving Mother" was desecrated with anti-Semitic texts. Same story happened in Kaliningrad just before that. Holland Jews have to take mezuzah from their houses because of threat of anti-Semites attack. In Ukrainian Kolyma, for the last half of the year, Jewish cemetery was vandalized three times. On Babi Yar memorial complex in Kyiv, menorah was set on fire nine times by vandals… And so on and so forth. And all this in not manifestation of anti-Semitism, but wretchedness and poverty of soul and mind. Attempting to attack on Jewish traditions, the desecration of the memory of the dead – is vandalism of the highest rank, that you can only imagine.

History of Jewish nation is full of sorrow, blood and tears. For centuries Jews were exterminated only for their origin: this means, to be killed, you didn’t have to take any radical action, but only be born as a Jew. Fortunately, this terrible period in the history of the Jewish people is over and today Jews can stand up for themselves and their loved ones.

But there are those who do not like even the dead Jews... In their malevolent helplessness they "fight" with those, who cannot answer, desecrating not only their memory, but also the feelings of their loved ones.

To stop this process, in my opinion, it is needed to implement two main steps: firstly – strengthening of defense of Jewish heritage by the government. Secondly – educational work with population. It is very important for people to know and understand, that aggression and destruction – is just vandalism actions and they have no connection to opinion expression. Very often the rejection of individual politicians or public people transforms it in such attacks and hatred to Jewish people.

This autumn the whole world will look back on one of the most terrible events in Jewish history - the 75th anniversary of the Babi Yar tragedy. To that date, a special government commission responsible for preparing the events was created. I am involved in that too. We will do our best for the policy at the highest level to participate in the commemoration ceremony. I, Honorary Consul of the state of Israel, will do everything possible for many world leaders - presidents, the heads of parliaments, prime ministers – to see what is happening in Ukraine now. I am sure that this can be a really starting point in order to change the situation.

To make more people finally understand the difference between personal rejection and attitude to the people, to see the real prospects of relationships with contemporary Israel, I, as Honorary Consul of the State of Israel, do everything I can. I am pleased to report that in May, the president of the Holocaust Foundation, journalist, public figure and human rights activist, one of the leaders of the anti-fascist movement, Alla Gerber will come to Ukraine. Mrs. Gerber will read a series of lectures in Ukrainian universities, also she will meet with reporters and make a presentation of her book. Alla Gerber, as a living witness to the destruction of the Jews, will share her experience in the construction of a free civil society. The detailed program of Alla Gerber’s stay will appear a bit later, but for now I can say that her performance can be heard in Kyiv and Lviv.

It is not a secret that I have to fly a lot.

Not so long ago a very significant event has happened to me in one of the Ukrainian international airports. While waiting for my departure, I saw the package on the floor. I looked for the owner - no one was looking for anything, everybody was focused on their stuff. I waited for 40 minutes, the package was in the corner all the time. Neither airport security service, nor staff, nor passengers showed the slightest interest in it. Most likely it was left by someone of the passengers. But it could have been left there deliberately.

Ukraine is not familiar with the concept of a terrorist attack yet. No one was taken hostage at the station, at the airport or the store, did not blow up the bomb, no one was threatened by suicide bombers. But this does not mean that the threat does not exist. Today's reality says that the Security Service should focus specifically on security in everyday life. Alas, I do not see it.

In contrast to the Ukrainian, the Israeli secret service pays the maximum attention to the issue of safety. The measures to prevent all sorts of threats are very strict there. At the entrance to the simple café you may be asked to go through a "border", there are no packages on the streets: if somehow it is not detected by the video surveillance system, no one will start checking its contents on their own without the military.

For example, to catch your plane in Ben Gurion Airport, it is necessary to become at least 2-3 hours before departure - that is how much the procedure will take to check all your documents, baggage, personal belongings and yourself. But you can definitely be sure that no terrorists will be released out of the airport. Never. Because there is multi-level system of testing which is implemented to respond to all possible and impossible types of threats there. Metal detectors, scanners, personal inspections, surveys, analysis of air and materials on explosives, police dogs, test for adequacy and checking purpose of the trip, video surveillance system, dozens of employees of special services, which you would never know about - all this makes the stay in Israel safe. Yes, in the country, that is in a state of war during 68 years and exposed to daily terrorist attacks, it is much safer than in any global megalopolis.

For example, Security Service of Ben Gurion Airport almost daily fulfills various emergencies that threaten the security: not only the terrorist attacks but also actions in case of an earthquake, fire - everything. The reaction of airport staff for any emergency situation will be instant, no one will be at a loss and look around confused. Moreover, it is simply impossible to imagine a situation when the package lies ignored under the column for an hour.

And it's not the point that in Israel everybody works with all ultra modern facilities - although the fact is. In Israel, the people themselves have long been accustomed to live in a state of "high alert", safety comes first. That is why you can feel completely safe in this country. Ukraine, if it wants to have peace in its own land, will also have to learn to live in a state of civil liability.

Soon citizen of our country will start their favorite national PE on their dacha plots.

This tradition is not bound to hryvna rate, or government, but only from weather. I think, when modern agro technologies will become available to our people, they will cultivate and harvest in all regions of the planet. But now they look only to “agrarian calendar” and moon phases. But to Israeli people whether forecast comes directly to their plots. It is possible with the help of new startup “Taranis”, developed in Israel.

To increase productivity, maximize natural resources usage and save on plot maintenance, it is enough to install special mobile application and one sensor on the plot. And then in certain time frames you will start receiving massages with real time information on meteorological situation. Same application will help farmer to define optimal preventive measures against weather and pests.

Also “Taranis” will help in preventing weather surprises: it will inform about frost, hail, hurricane, drought or shower. Additionally, it will predict special weather parameters, will create individual schedule and send to your smartphone. Something, off course, you will still need to do with hands, but maybe this “drawback” will be fixed soon.

Dear friends!

Today begins Pesach - the holiday of faith and hope, celebration of deliverance from the insurmountable troubles, sorrow and misery.

During the wars and disasters that have come to the lands of Ukraine and Israel, people often lose faith in their own strength and victory. The events of recent years have changed the usual picture of the world for the Ukrainian people, but also have given hope for a new, free life. Now we, like the people of Israel, have to pass a long way of formation and search to protect our right to the Promised Land.

I wish you all not to lose faith in yourself and your people! I cordially congratulate you on the holiday and wish you a Merry Pesach!

Yesterday the European Comission adopted a proposal on the introduction of visa-free regime for Ukraine.

Well, the long-awaited and promising news. But, as always, there are people who have found what to reproach the President and other “Euro-negotiators” for. I have often heard such arguments as “those who traveled to Europe don’t need visa-free regime, they will go on doing that” and “what is the problem to get a visa? You should just come to the embassy once and get it.”

There is a certain point of sense here, but there is more bile, of course. For all eurosceptics I will gladly explain the obvious advantages of visa-free regime using the relations between Ukraine and Israel as an example.

Since the introduction of visa-free regime between our countries passed 5 years – it is quite a period to draw conclusions and see the first results. During this time the flow of tourists between Ukraine and Israel has grown from tens of thousands to hundred of thousands: over the past year 150 thousand of Israelis came to Ukraine. According to the official figures 129 311 Ukrainians visited Israel during the last year. And more than 120 thousand trips are private.

Already during the first year after the introduction of visa-free regime the trade turnover between Ukraine and Israel rose by more than 49%, and Ukraine sold goods worth $ 922, 5 mln to Israel. Now this goods turnover between our countries is more than $1 billion per year and this figure is constantly growing.

In addition, Ukraine is the main supplier of grain, which the Israelis bake their famous matzah from, the amount of “Ukrainian” matzah is more than half in Israel.

After the introduction of visa-free regime Ukrainian businessmen have begun actively (not just once or twice a year) visit Israel, and that implies new channels of trade, new markets, new ways of cooperation and profit.

So, since now you can go to the airport with a passport, buy tickets and fly to Israel, this advantage is taken by the relatives of those 500 thousands of repatriates who have left Ukraine and live in Israel.

Interesting fact: despite war, crisis and numerous threats present in both countries, number of citizen that visit Ukraine and Israel only grows. Same way as in agriculture, trade, spheres of culture, science, technologies and medicine.

In 2016 it is planned to sign free trade agreements between our countries – this shows positive development dynamic of bilateral cooperation, that became clear in the resent years.

Adding to it all Israel is a country that is in the process of active development, and in constant need of specialists in various fields. As a result, last month it was announced, that Israel proposes 10 thousand working places for construction workers from Ukraine. Besides that, Ukrainian IT and agriculture specialists constantly cooperate with Israel either on its territory or in the way of distant work.

As you can see, advantages are obvious. Perhaps I can name few more: you do not have to wait in the long line in any season of the year in front of the embassy to get visa. By the way, European visas cost about 30-35 euros. If we count that last year more than 1.5 mil Ukrainians left to EU, you can easily imagine the amount of money that “just like that” will stay in Ukraine.

Additionally, with abolition of visa regime students and people who are looking for official employment will get wide opportunities, because you can visit an interview at any suitable moment.

And, of course with visa-free regime with Europe wide opportunities are first of all opened for small and medium business.

I hope that sooner or later all sceptics will understand all advantages of visa-free regime. And if they do not, it will not influence the result, because it will for shore happen.

Ukrainian planes will be equipped in Israel way

I always stress that we are to learn a lot from Israel. First of all because Israel very actively cooperating and sharing experience, secondly, because Israeli technologies are one of the most advanced. And if we want for Ukraine to reach top hundred, top ten, top five - like Israel did – than we have to strengthen relations between our countries. Especially when Israel always gives such opportunity.

Last week delegation of Israel company ORBIT presented to UAF command ultramodern communication system Orion, designed for training planes.

Israeli company ORBIT is world’s leading supplier of integrated communication systems. They are used in air, land, navy and space spheres. Besides, Israeli company works with both army and civil structures all over the world, with constant development and update of design.

Possibility of participation in this project is not only a good way to update Ukrainian equipment, but a chance to learn: a part in this project will be given to Ukrainian engineers from defense complex, that will get new experience in modernization of military planes and helicopters. I hope that Ukrainian army and authorities will be able to value this opportunity and use it in the right way.

Today, when Ukraine is in lingering military conflict, we have to modernize all that small heritage that was not stolen by this time. While politician prefer to solve their own issues, share cases, simple Ukrainians defend their land from enemy. But to protect itself, Ukraine have to update its equipment. Ukrainian aviation is in the process of modernization, and installation of modern equipment is a necessary condition for normal operation. Our planes have to catch up for the gap that we created in the last decades, and Israel gives such opportunity. Israel is leader in aviation equipment systems and Israeli technologies are accepted all over the world. Using their advanced experience, we can create modern army. And not only army: these technologies are needed in civil-, navy-, and space spheres.

Source: Ministry of Defense

Good day, friends!

In my posts I constantly mention cultural events on the territory of Israel, which help Israel nation get closer to Ukrainian mentality, traditions and history. Cultural diplomacy is for a long time the source of Israelis Ukrainian communication. On Israel territory you can see festivals of Ukrainian culture, photo and art exhibitions. Ukrainian artists come to Israel to popularize and promote Ukrainian art and Ukraine itself.

As you can remember, few times I wrote about huge reaction to the movie devoted to Maidan events, that was viewed in Israel. At that time, it managed to tell more to the viewer, than journalists or diplomats. It could gain such strong resolve from Israelis nation due to the common pain shared by our nations.

Just half a year ago Ukraine hosted Israel Movie Week, that was welcomed with huge agiotage. At that time Ukrainians managed to see Israel with the eyes of modern Israel directors. And now Israelis too can witness Ukrainian modern and classic movies.

Three largest cities of Israel will host the Days of Ukrainian cinema from May 5th till May 31st. First time in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa the program showcases the retrospective of Oleksandr Dovzhenko’s famous trilogy – films Earth, Arsenal and Zvenyhora. Recently, the film Earth entered the top five of world masterpieces, which are defined by UNESCO to the 120th anniversary of cinema.

Along with the recognized classics, Israelis will see the works of contemporary Ukrainian directors.Special closing event of the festival will be the premiere of the film Song of Songs by Eva Neymann on the works of Sholem Aleichem, the centenary of whose birth the whole world will mark on May 13th this year.

Among representatives of modern Ukrainian cinema are Oles Sanin, Serhiy Mokrytsky, Dmytro Moyseyev, Oleksandr Balahura, and Valentyn Vasyanovych.

I always emphasize that any informal modes of communication are more effective than official ones: it is much easier to find like-minded people talking "without ties". And this kind of communication between Israel should be as much as possible. Therefore, I invite everyone to visit the festival of Ukrainian cinema.

At the end of March in the Israeli city of Hebron, the IDF soldiers were attacked by Palestinian extremists: at midday, two people with knives attacked a military patrol.

As a result of the attack one soldier was stabbed, the terrorists were neutralized in turn. But later, on the initiative of a human rights organization (!!), one of the Israeli soldiers was accused of manslaughter, arguing that the terrorist was neutralized and finish him off was not necessary. Are the motifs familiar?

The soldier, who had committed the fatal shot, was sure that the terrorist wore a so-called "suicide belt" and there was a threat of a large-scale explosion. However, the representatives of the Arab community are now shouting loudly about the premeditated murder.

As you remember, not so long ago in our country it was a pretty big story after the Kyiv police, in the course of arrest, had shot a passenger of an uncontrolled car. Then, the opinions were divided: some said that the policeman abused his authority and that there was no need to shoot to kill. Others saw in the actions of the police a clear intention to prevent a bigger tragedy.

Let me give an example of how Israeli society reacts to such situations. Firstly, on the streets of Israeli cities everywhere you can meet boys or girls, wearing civil, with guns: they are Israeli soldiers on leave or on vacation. Even then they are obliged to defend their country.

Now imagine a group of civilians with guns in Kiev, Kharkiv and Odessa.

So now for the entire month Israeli soldiers are supporting the action of the soldier of Hebron, and people insist on releasing him, thank him for the protection, and support him and his family. The event gained the national scale. Politicians, musicians, artists, scientists and thousands of ordinary citizens made a stand for him. At the same time many officials just condemned the soldier. But Israel does not leave his people behind, and people understand that the politicians are just temporary employees in the service of the people.

Israel understood long ago that civil society groups play a leading role in public life and making that are able to change the life of the country. And a soldier doing his duty can count on the fact that his country will never abandon him. But here we can go to jail for the performance of official duties, or to obtain a subpoena for draft evasion after 6 months in the area of ATO. I wonder how many years should pass so that we began to appreciate every soldier, every human being?

This post is about solidarity and human dignity

I am talking about the Israeli doctors who helped the Ukrainian soldier. Valentyn Kowalsky, a sniper of the 95th air cavalry brigade, was seriously wounded during fierce fighting near Saur-Mohyla in July 2014. After the injury, the soldier was operated in the Kharkiv hospital. Then there was a long-term treatment in Lviv, where Valentyn had four operations more. After a short break there were three operations in Lviv and Kyiv. But the wound was so serious that all efforts of doctors helped only partially. Despite the fact that Ukrainian doctors made everything possible to help the soldier, the health of the paratrooper only became worse.

Then Valentyn’s family decided to receive treatment abroad and sent the man to Israel. Israeli doctors examined the soldier and diagnosed numerous problems in his internal organs. The situation worsened with each passing day, Valentyn needed an immediate surgery. Zhytomyr community, where a native Ukrainian paratrooper is from, gathered the necessary sum of money for treatment - 80 thousand dollars. And then, as they say, a lucky chance played its role. First, Israeli dostors found the cause of the rapid deterioration of Valentyn’s health. And secondly, the Ukrainian had to be operated by the medical colonel of the Israeli army, the doctor Yoram Klein. Learning that his patient is also a soldier, a combatant of Antiterrorist operation, the Israeli doctor did not take money for the operation. His team did the same. That is the true support, true solidarity! Such charity is not only admirable, but it is necessary to speak about.

I, as a citizen of Ukraine, also want to thank Mr. Klein personally and the entire team of Israeli physicians for such a display of brotherly support, compassion, kindness and mercy! You are a true role model.

Valentyn is currently recovering and returning to everyday life. The thing, Doctor Klein did, again proves that any propaganda is not able to close people's eyes, ears and heart. People themselves are able to decide who is right and who is wrong, who can help and sympathize. These everyday actions speak about the true attitude of Israelis to Ukraine, no matter how Russian propaganda tries to impose a second opinion.

Dear friends, today I would like to tell you the details of my visit to western regions.

During the visit I met not only the government officials, but also representatives of the Jewish community, visited the sightseeing, talked with the representatives of the clergy.
The first of a series of such meetings was the visit to the synagogue in Ivano-Frankivsk. A very interesting building, in architectural terms, experienced a difficult history, like many other religious buildings did. The Rabbi of the Frankivsk synagogue Moshe Leib Kolesnik told us that the Jewish community by joint efforts is restoring lost cultural wealth of the region now.
Chernivtsi, along with Kyiv, Lviv, Odessa, is one of the most beautiful cities of Ukraine. And it's not only about the architectural style, but the city gives the atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. It is a great pleasure to work, walk and just be there. And the most important thing is that people are very sincere and friendly in Chernivtsi. And they are very enterprising. Chernivtsi residents carefully preserve the traditions of their city and respect the traditions of all communities living together.

As I have already said, Chernivtsi was once called the most Jewish of all cities. For centuries, Jews lived here, preserving their cultural traditions. Here they were able to transfer them to their descendants freely, conduct traditional Jewish life openly. By 1940 there were 47 synagogues in the city, and centers that helped the poor members of the community, also there were Jewish hospitals, orphanages, schools, etc. There is still a large number of centers of Jewish culture, education and religion in Chernivtsi.

During my visit to Chernivtsi I also visited some of the important places. In particular, I visited the central synagogue of Chernivtsi where Rabbi Menachem Mendel Glitsenshteyn told me about the synagogue as a religious and cultural center. Personally, I was impressed by the architecture of the local synagogue and that how difficult it was for local congregation to restore the building abandoned for decades.

Later, there was another visit, one of the most enjoyable for the whole journey. Together with the Ambassador of Israel Eliav Belotsercovsky, we visited ORT specialized school, where children learn Jewish traditions, culture and language. In addition to studying Jewish traditions, the aim of this school is to form among the students the basics of life in the community: self-management, social activity. This school also supports the introduction of high technologies in the education system, using the Internet everywhere, developing information technology. In my opinion, such schools are an example to follow. And they do not have to be Jewish. The school maintains close ties with the Jewish community of the city, representatives of which also came to the meeting with us.

We got acquainted with the organization of the educational process of the school, attended Hebrew lessons and met with the students’ parents. These schools are a bright example of the unique symbiosis of education and technology, a combination of studying the cultural traditions and achievements of modern science. One of the most important features of the Jewish people is the ability to respect the traditions, history and culture. In fact, because of this there are Jewish people. I think it is the right time to introduce into Ukrainian schools the same rational combination - to support Ukrainian culture, history, to teach children the traditions. But at the same time, it is necessary to maintain and implement modern principles of education and science.

Yesterday, the events of recent weeks received a logical continuation: the Verkhovna Rada sent Arseniy Yatsenyuk’s government to resignation; he was replaced by Vladimir Groysman.

Despite the fact that Vladimir Groysman is a fairly young politician, his election could be a compromise for all parties, which are aimed at management of the country. In my opinion, Groysman is an example of an effective manager and innovator, who is not only familiar with the existing control system, with all its minuses and archaisms, but is an example of a new generation of politicians. He was a manager and a pioneer who is not afraid of radical solutions. These solutions are not chaotic, but systematic: he demonstrated his management abilities well at the post of mayor of Vinnitsa City. Personally, I am very impressed by his focus on European governance standards.

Now, of course, many people will say, "Yes, since Groysman is Jewish, you like him for sure." Yes, he is Jewish, and yes, I like him, but it's more a coincidence than regularity; here the nationality plays no role. If he were Tatar, Polish or even Russian, I would like him the same way. First of all, I am impressed by Groysman as a person who understands the rightness and prospects of relations between Ukraine and Israel. On his initiative, in 2012, the ultra-modern diagnostic center was opened in Vinnitsa City, equipped with Israeli technology. This was the result of round-the-clock negotiations: Groysman was able to convince the Israeli partners in the prospects of such a project. As a result, the city (and the country) received a wonderful Center.

In addition, Groysman established and maintained contacts with many Israeli businessmen, trying to ensure that his city could become an example of cooperation between Israel and Ukraine. In total, during his work in Vinnitsa City, thanks to Vladimir Groysman, the city's budget was rose by 750 million hryvnias. So I just believe in his managerial skills: he showed himself "before" and not "after".
I want to believe that Groysman as Prime Minister is able to achieve more significant results than his predecessor, and his work will contribute to strengthening the well-being of both Ukraine and its image in the international arena.

The working visit through the western regions continued with the visit to Chernivtsi.

On April 12, together with the Ambassador of Israel, Mr. Eliav Belotserkovski, I met with the Acting Head of Chernivtsi Regional State Administration, Ruslan Senchuk. Just as elsewhere, we discussed the possible areas for cooperation between Ukraine and Israel, of which at the moment the most promising is tourism (including medical, green), ways to support joint cultural and educational projects, economic cooperation.

Bukovyna is one of those regions, which does not need to prove the advantages of cooperation with Israel. For centuries Chernivtsi was the most Jewish city among others. Therefore, due to the historical traditions, Chernivtsi region is a very promising area for bilateral cooperation with Israel.

According to Mr. Belotserkovski "Bukovyna is a special place for Israel, because there lived many Jewish families, a significant number of them were killed during the Holocaust. However, in Israel there are many immigrants from Ukraine and, in particular, from Bukovyna, for whom it would be interesting to learn about the culture of the Chernivtsi region and go back to native land. Israel is ready to share its experience with Ukraine, a country that is developing dynamically."

One of the topics of our conversation with the authority of the region was the implementation of the city’s Security system in the region and, especially, in Chernivtsi. According to the Chernivtsi Mayor, Oleksii Kaspruk, "the issue of security is at the highest level in Israel, so, we are very interested in this experience, regarding the circumstances in which Ukraine is now living."

We focused separately on the problem of investing in the region. I believe that today it is extremely important to demonstrate the Israeli investors that Bukovyna will strongly support the development of business projects in the area to restore their trust. So, there was agreed about the visit of delegation of Israeli journalists and tourist business representatives, which will be held in the nearest future. There will be a promo tour through Chernivtsi region to show all its tourist attractions and to enable the Ukrainian and Israeli entrepreneurs to develop joint projects.

In addition, the citizens of Chernivtsi are very interested in Israel's experience in the field of energy savings and alternative energy. Such projects could be another area for joint cooperation.

I am sure that having such strong and even "family" ties with the community of the region and with the support of the authority, we can establish the close cooperation between Israel and Ukraine. Chernivtsi region is one of the most promising in this regard.

On April 11, I visited Ivano-Frankivsk with a working visit, where I held a number of meetings with the administration of the region and city.

Ciscarpathian is one of the most promising regions of Ukraine in terms of tourism, but needs the significant investment. Together with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Ukraine, Eliav Belotserkovsky and the Head of Ivano-Frankivsk regional state administration, Oleh Honcharuk, we discussed a possible form of cooperation between Israel and Ivano-Frankivsk region.

I am very encouraged that the current authority of the region has focused on rebuilding of infrastructure in the region. After all, in order to increase the flow of tourists, it is necessary to restore the roads, develop new tourist trails, improve quality of service, etc . An example of the effective area is a tourist center "Bukovel", which is steadily growing and is profitable for the budget of the region. To promote the resort among the Israelites is a very good opportunity to increase significantly the number of tourists. I am sure that many of the residents of Israel - as our former compatriots as indigenous people will want to escape from the heat in the coolness of the Carpathians.

According to the Ambassador of Israel, due to the introduction between our countries of visa-free regime a number of tourists is actively growing who are coming to the region. However, almost all of them go to the Carpathian through Kyiv or Lviv, arriving from Tel Aviv. So, we discussed the possibility of opening such a direct flight from Israel to Ivano-Frankivsk. This will not only increase the tourist flow, but also the attractiveness of the region, which currently requires an investment. During the last year, Israeli investment in the region amounted to 500 thousand dollars, but perspective is bigger: in 2015, the export of its products to Israel has increased by almost 60% compared to the last year.

We also discussed thecooperation in the medical field: Ivano-Frankivsk refion is currently actively involved in the ATO and many immigrants from the region are needed the medical treatment that could be provided by Israel.

At the meeting with the Mayor of Ivano-Frankivsk, Ruslan Martsynkiv, there were discussed the implementation of Security system of the city on the example of the Israeli city Rishon Lezion. This centralized system that prevents an offense and is aimed at the ensuring the peace and order in the city. It works thanks to the surveillance cameras that cover the whole city. The information from them goes to a common control center, where the operators respond to the possible threats. This system can effectively coordinate all emergency services of the city. Earlier this year, the city safety system has already started to work in Lviv on the basis of cameras, which were installed before the European Football Championship. The use of this system in Frankivsk will reduce the crime rate in the city and increase security.

Today Ciscarpathian is actively working to attract the investment to the region, trying to improve their own standard of living. Israel's experience in the tourism industry and attracting investments is open to Ivano-Frankivsk and I hope that it will help in the development of the region.

Over the past two years Ukraine has moved from the direct Russian gas deliveries to the European use.

By incorporating the GTS system to reverse, we buy, in fact, the same Russian gas, but at the European prices, which are far below those that "brotherly nation"offers us. It is possible to reduce the dependence on Russian energy, and, thus, to reduce its impact as a whole.

But finally, only substitution of one major gas market to another will help to "get off" with the Russian "gas needle". Thus, the Israeli gas can become the output for Ukraine and for Europe as a whole.

I remind you that in the years 2014-2015 Israel opened two giant fields in the Mediterranean Sea. According to the experts, the stock of "Leviathan" and "Tamara" is enough for both domestic Israeli market and for export for many decades to come. The contracts for the supply of gas to Jordan are already signed, the deliveries to Egypt are planned. The Israeli gas could be delivered to Europe through Egypt, and also Turkey. Besides the already known fields, the geologists suggest to open several more on the territory of ​​the Mediterranean Sea. This will further strengthen Israel's position in the gas market, improve the economy of the country and will allow the European countries, including Ukraine, to overcome the dependence on the Russian energy.

I believe that we should look at the issue of energy security for several years ahead. Ukraine can improve the reliability of power supply due to the Israeli gas. The partnership between our countries significantly strengthened during the last few years. Israel proves to be a reliable friend and partner for Ukraine.

The world and Ukrainian media discussed hotly the Panamanian offshores during last week.

I think this situation will be continued further.

But I want to look at this situation at another point: why do wealthy people prefer to withdraw their money from their own country, but they continue to do business?

It is obvious that if the situation was not favorable at all, then many would have to "roll up" and focus on the new markets. However, companies remain, people work and create the working places. But not because everything is so rosy, but because it is easier to maintain the existing level of business than to build a new one. You literally have to adapt and survive in an environment where the tax system only takes into account the needs rather than the reality and prospects.

In contrast, I want to give an example of Israel, where only for the past year 4,000-dollar millionaires had immigrated. And not only Jews by birth. And do you know from which countries people immigrate to Israel the most? From Europe, from France to be exact. Obviously, no one will go to a poor country, will not enter the capital to a questionable market. Israel, a country with a population of 8.2 million people, is also a home to 72 thousand dollar millionaires. And taxes are paid, working places created, and market being expanded. And nobody is going to move

On April 3, at the Honorary Consulate of Israel in Lviv there was held a "Business Day" for children and adolescents, organized by the youth club "Tzofim" – a scout youth organization working at the Embassy of Israel in Ukraine.

I believe that financial literacy is an integral part of education. It is very important for a child to know not just from where money appears, but also to understand what to do with them. In the future it will help to make the right decisions, efficiently use its own resources, learn to plan. Unfortunately, there are no subjects on financial literacy in the program of general secondary schools. In our society we do not talk with the children about money, so they often still remain as an abstract concept. But how and on what terms to take a loan, how to calculate the monthly budget, how to preserve and increase their savings, all of this is an important information, which will form the basis of human well-being in the future.

During such business lesson in the Honorary Consulate of Israel the children from 12 to 17 years had the opportunity to try themselves in the role of private entrepreneurs: each of them got their own passport, then a license to work in their chosen profession. Also, the young businessmen were provided with working places and everything they need for the job. Under the guidance of the instructor children were taught to earn, keep records and plan expenses. Moreover, the earned "money" they could spend or save. At the end of the event there was held an auction in which the children could buy gifts for the real earnings.

The Honorary Consulate will continue to support such projects aimed at the education of children.

Recently, on April 2 the whole world had held a Day of dissemination of the information about autists – people who are virtually defenseless in front of the world.

These people are particularly sensitive to the things usual for everyone – the light, the sound and the emotions. Autistic children often have difficulties in understanding what others people say as they live in their own world. The reasons for such emotional conditions can be completely different, but all autistic children have one common problem – this is communication with the outside world.

In Ukraine no one talks about people with certain problems, it is appropriate to pretend that they do not exist. At best, they are simply ignored, but more often, they get aggressive reaction. This reaction is caused by the usual fear that the person next to you "is not like you" and you can’t predict how can he behave himself. That is why it is so important to spread the information about people with physical or psychological problems. Ignoring the problem is not an option.

In Israel, there is no "special" attitude to the disabled people (this word does not seem to me so scary or impolite, it just means that a person is restricted in some way, no more), Israeli society is friendly in this sense. No one marks out or separates people with certain physical characteristics, so obviously they don’t feel themselves “not like others”. There is all the necessities to make the disabled people feel comfortable EVERYWHERE in Israel: ramps, elevators to the beach, special public transport lifts, etc. ..

As for autistic people, the Israeli army has a unique unit, where young people with autistic disorders serve. This unit deals with the analysis of maps and images: unlike the average person, autists have the power to notice the small details, match the details, which simple soldier will not see. The thing is that autistic people’s operational process of visual or text data is much more faster, they are very accurate in details, and can handle the incredible amount of information in a short time. Thanks to such kind of analysis, Israel saves the lives of its soldiers every day, and military service helps autistic soldiers to feel whole palette of life skills. And what is more, such people are unreplaceable in the high technologies field.

The society, not just tolerated, but also being friendly to all its citizens, convenient for them, simply doomed for a peaceful existence. Tell me, have you seen any parents or teachers who are willing to take an autistic child in a class?

Friends, do you know that the Israeli army is in the top decile in the world?

According to the rating compiled by the authoritative Global firepower, ten the most powerful armies in the world are as follows: the United States of America, Russia, China, India, Britain, France, Japan, South Korea, Israel and Turkey.

The combat units of the Israeli army is 160 thousand people, and more than half a million regularly undergo the reservist gatherings. But the most amazing is the amount of Israeli arms: according to the publication, the Israeli army has 243 combat aircraft, 4 thousand tanks, 10 thousand armored personnel carriers, 300 artillery pieces, 3 frigates and 6 submarines. For the country that is on 148th place in the world and a population of which is slightly more than 8 million people - are impressive figures.

But in Israel TSAHAL is not just the army. This is a platform for the development of advanced technologies, modern types of weapons, as well as a significant item in the budget of the state. In the last year Israel signed the military contracts, the income from which amounted to 5.7 billion dollars. Moreover, taking into account the recent terrorist threats, Europe is one of the main buyers of Israel.

Of course, the army budget is more than $ 15 billion, but the Israelis know exactly what they spend the money wisely and usefully. The defense army of Israel operates according to this principle, when a soldier thinks only about how it is better to do his job, but not what to eat, what to wear and to fight with what. That is why it is in the rank of the best armies in the world.

Yesterday in Netherlands, a referendum has taken place where citizens spoke "for" or "against" the Ukrainian association with the EU. 61.1% of voters who came to the sections has voted against such union.

Personally, I do not see any reason to panic or to be despair because of this result, which swept across social networks and media yesterday. The referendum has been consultative, and will not affect the actual accession or association with the EU. In addition, the Dutch government supports Ukraine publicly and appeals its citizens to vote "for".

However, what is really worth paying attention - is the attitude of ordinary Dutch people to our state. The result of the referendum clearly shows that the anti-Ukrainian propaganda works "perfectly well". For example, for the last two days the Dutch television channels has been demonstrating the videos of Ukrainian parliamentarian’s fights. The opponents of Ukraine's accession to the EU has been very united all the time and made so many actions, that it is clear - the Dutch choice was the result of an active anti-Ukrainian PR.

The situation, when Ukraine’s events have inadequate perception, observed in Israel frequently. The Russian channels, which are many in Israel, give distorted information about the "crucified children" and "civil war." It is logical that the average citizen generates its point of view based on the image of such media.

I often talk with the Israelis - both ordinary citizens and politicians. I can say that even high-ranking officials are often under the influence of such misinformation. Therefore, each time I have to explain, tell and prove, if necessary, what is happening in Ukraine. And this work is not for one person or one day. Remember that there is a huge Ukrainian Diaspora in Israel - about 500 thousand people. It is possible to create a positive image of Ukraine in Israel with their help. But above all, the Ukrainians - diplomats, artists and ordinary citizens - should make an effort to change the opinion about themselves, about our country, finally eradicate the hateful Soviet flavor that deeply ingrained in the image of Ukraine.

After a trip to Israel an internal understanding of how much Ukraine needs to learn from the Israeli experience each time becomes strong.

And people surprise to the upside who confidently raise their own country and are eager to share the experience with the Ukrainians. This is not a pity for them, on the contrary, they will gladly tell and prompt.

On behalf of the Honorary Consulate of Israel I would like to thank colleagues and representatives of the Israeli side for a productive visit and cooperation. The Ukrainian deputies were able to see everything personally, to see the customs, sea port, municipality, tax agency. I am sure that this experience will definitely help in the process of reformation in our country.

And today I want to tell you (for comparison) about a new environmental initiative, which was presented to the Knesset last week. The project "It's - my Earth" in the Israeli parliament was presented by the Israeli leaders of the environmental community, as well as the actors, poets, activists and parliamentarians. Like a hundred years ago, the Israelis are calling just to buy the land, which are on the brink of the ecological disaster. But if a century ago the lands were bought to build the life of the people of Eretz Yisrael, and now - to save the animals and plants.

The project offers on the base of crowdsourcing (when a large number of people are involved in a common affair who communicate with each other virtually) to associate with the global community and invites people to choose and buy a piece of land which is under the threat of ecological disaster place. It allows each resident to reduce the harm to ecosystems and to bring a contribution into the saving of the planet. The organizers want to attract the maximum number of participants into the project – the modern means of communication very well allow it. At the same time the authors of the idea coordinate their actions with the world's leading experts on environmental protection.

Now, actually, the comparison. According to the journalists of the Western regions of Ukraine, the region's daily output about 150 timber wagons. In support of my words - the bright picture of the state of the Ukrainian Carpathians.

Photo: "Zakarpatskii correspondent"

Greetings, friends!

At the end of the second day of the visit of the Ukrainian delegation in Israel we have already managed to meet with the experts in the field of finance, the Speaker of the Knesset, and yesterday we had a long and productive communication with the tax and customs control of Israel. We can say that it was an accelerated international course of experience exchange!

On April 4, the members of our delegation met with Uri Brook, a senior manager of tax administration of Israel and Sarah Beaton - the Head of the International Department of the Israeli Customs Administration. Before 2004, there were three tax units in Israel, which largely duplicated each other.

Realizing that the bloated apparatus of the tax service only hinders the process, the administration has been reduced to a single unit. As a result, a tax collection sharply increased and free staff were directed to new areas of work. So, in order to increase the collection of taxes in Israel they do not increase, but reduce the bureaucratic colossus.

In addition, Mr. Brook spoke in detail about how to work in Israel against the tax crimes, how to carry out the inspections in the companies, work with employers, etc. In general, there is a lot to learn.

Particularly, I will focus on the work of customs in Israel: according to the words of Ms. Beaton, 95% of all goods on the Israeli customs are reviewed for one hour. One hour! This occurs due to the usage of modern computer systems in the customs. It automatically analyzes the financial statements and helps the customs officers the best option behavior: whether to check the goods, or you can do a formal examination procedure. Such system works effectively because it takes into account every nuance of each client, the history of relations with him, the financial statements, etc. But you should note that in Israel seldom to whom will come to mind to give or accept a bribe for illegal trafficking: too long prison terms are threatening. Trafficking exists in Israel: every day the customs officers intercept weapons, drugs, cigarettes and tobacco.

Customs works very fast because almost all goods get customs clearance in advance, only 5% of goods are really testing to which there are any questions. The customs officials use special scanners in the work that test even very large container for a few minutes. There are also special "vacuum cleaners", which check the containers for weapons and explosives: the air takes the tests from the vacuum cleaner, and if it finds the slightest particle of explosive - the container is opened for inspection.

When an investor comes into the country, not only the tax and investment climate are very important in the region, but also the customs policy. A striking example - the company Intell, which invested $ 7 billion in the economy of Israel, because of the simplicity and transparency of the customs system of Israel, the company was able to bring quickly and easily the equipment to the country and start to work.

The final chord of the day was the visit to Ashdod where there is the largest commercial sea port in Israel. The Head of the customs control of the city, Rafi Gabay, said that the Israeli customs has very wide powers. In some moments more than the police. For example, according to the law only one person is free from customs inspections – it is the president. The customs has the right to check the goods even of any minister, including the Head of the government.

Later our delegation visited Ashdod City Hall: the Mayor, Yehiel Lasri, his deputy, Boris Giterman and a member of the City Council, who is responsible for education issues, Yehuda Frenkel, shared their experiences in the field of municipal management. The Ukrainian parliamentaries were told how the Israeli City Hall is organized, on what the municipality earns, what it manages, the challenges that are faced. In the process of decentralization, which Ukraine is helding, this experience is very useful.

P. S.: the Ukrainian parliamentaries passed the Mayor of the city Ashdod, Mr. Lasri, the map of the world from the children of Ukraine to the children of Israel in the framework of the action "Children are for peace all over the world".