Israeli FM's official visit to Ecuador the first in 44 years

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar addressed a special session of Ecuador's National Assembly in Quito on Wednesday, marking the first visit by an Israeli foreign minister to the country in 44 years. The two nations signed a memorandum of understanding focused on counterterrorism cooperation and committed to expanding their economic relationship.

Sa'ar stated that "Israel and Ecuador face common challenges" And said that "by deepening cooperation in counterterrorism, innovation, agriculture and trade, we are strengthening the partnership between our countries for the benefit of both our peoples." He expressed gratitude to National Assembly Chair Esteban Torres Cobo, Israel Friendship Group Chair Andres Castillo, and Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Lucia Jaramillo for their reception.

During the visit, Sa'ar met with leaders of Ecuador's Jewish community to discuss support for Israel and antisemitism concerns. According to Sa'ar, the community members praised President Daniel Noboa's leadership and the deepening relationship with Jerusalem.

Sa'ar is scheduled to travel to Colombia to represent Israel at the Friday inauguration of President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella in Cali, where he plans to meet with leaders and officials from across the region.

Two weeks prior, Sa'ar reached an agreement with Colombia's designated foreign minister, Omar Bula Escobar, to relocate Bogotá's embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, along with provisions for an immediate ambassador exchange and reciprocal visa waivers. This reversed the previous Colombian government's May 2024 decision to sever diplomatic ties.

Sa'ar said: "Through determined and systematic diplomatic efforts, we have succeeded in strengthening and renewing Israel's relations with many countries across Latin America. We are continuing our effort to bring Latin America closer to Israel. Israel and its citizens will benefit from this in every sphere - diplomatically, economically, and through tourism."