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Writer's pictureIlana Lamstein

Tête à Tête with Nina Ben Ami



Nina Ben Ami  Embajadora del Estado de Israel en el Uruguay (2014- 2018)
Ambassador of the State of Israel in Uruguay (2014-2018) Nina Ben Ami


Nina Ben Ami, a mother of three daughters and a wife, is a graduate in Public and International Affairs from Princeton University in the United States. She has had the opportunity to serve in various diplomatic missions in countries such as Ivory Coast, Canada, and France. Since 2014, and for the first time in her career, she has held the position of Ambassador of Israel to our country.

  • Being a woman in the political arena representing the State of Israel demands skills that Nina Ben Ami possesses with unwavering determination, conviction, and clarity of purpose. Dear Ambassador, perhaps many are unaware that you were not born in Israel but made "Aliyah" from the United States when you were very young. Could you share a bit of your personal story with us?


I embarked on my Aliyah journey at the age of 24, leaving the United States behind. My initial arrival in Israel was at 21, right after completing my studies at Princeton, and I never looked back. For three years, I pursued a Master's degree in Geography, and it was during this time that I made the life-altering decision to make Aliyah and establish my permanent residence in Israel.

My husband, Lior, who is a "tzabar" (a term for a native-born Israeli), played a significant role in influencing this choice. Despite being born in India due to my parents' roles as American diplomats, I consider Maryland my true home. During my childhood, I attended the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School of Greater Washington, an institution that instilled in me a deep love for Judaism and the values of Zionism.


  • Was it your strong commitment to Zionism that drove this decision?


Yes, my desire was to build my life in Israel, establish my family here, and firmly root myself where my heart belonged. It may seem ironic that despite my profound love for my homeland, my profession often takes me far away from Israel.


Transitioning to the realm of politics, I would like to inquire about your role as the Ambassador to our country. Shortly before you assumed your diplomatic post, the Uruguayan government made a political decision to officially recognize a "Palestinian State." This was followed, in 2015, by the conflict in Gaza, which brought about certain differences of opinion with the national government. Given this sequence of events, could you share your perspective on the diplomatic outcomes achieved during your tenure?-


In the diplomatic field, we have achieved significant milestones with Uruguay in recent years. While I could delve into specifics, some details remain confidential. Uruguay has unequivocally condemned the terrorist attacks in Israel on several occasions.


The Uruguayan Foreign Ministry has staunchly supported Israel in various multinational forums, spanning from New York to Nairobi, Vienna to Bali. This support is rooted in our shared values and mutual interests. Uruguay stands against extremism, anti-Semitism, and international terrorism, while advocating for Israel's legitimate right to self-defense. Uruguay has established itself as a balanced and esteemed voice on the global stage.

It cast a vote against Hamas, when a Palestinian NGO sought entry to ECOSOC. Moreover, Uruguay has extended support and co-sponsorship to Israeli resolutions at the UN, addressing critical areas like innovation and agriculture. Additionally, Uruguay partners with Israel in the UN core group focusing on LGBT issues. Through these shared values and interests, our collaborative efforts have led to successful outcomes.


In your assessment, what are the notable strengths and areas for improvement within the Jewish community in Uruguay?


I believe it wouldn't be prudent or suitable for me to assign a rating or evaluation to the Jewish community here. What I can affirm is that their dedication to Israel is unwavering and immensely valuable to us as an embassy. Advocating for Israel, upholding its values, and asserting its right to self-defense are intrinsic to the Jewish community of Uruguay. From this standpoint, we stand united. The Jewish community of Uruguay bolsters Israel, and for that, we hold deep appreciation.


Moving on to the international stage...


  • Several months ago, UNESCO explicitly disavowed the historical connection between the Jewish people and the Temple Mount. Subsequently, they voted in favor of a Palestinian proposal designating the historic center of Hebron, including the "Tomb of the Patriarchs," as a Palestinian World Heritage Site. In response, Israel, along with the United States, withdrew its representation from the organization. Do you believe that the new Director General, Audrey Azoulay, a French-born Jew with left-leaning political views, could potentially influence a change in this regard?


We'll have to observe how events unfold. Ms. Azoulay is a person of vision and leadership. It's essential to allow her time to settle into her role and monitor the developments. However, maintaining full membership in an organization that denies the historical link between the Jewish people and our ancestral land appears incongruous.


  • The renowned Italian journalist Oriana Fallaci, in her book "Interview with History," published an interview she conducted with Golda Meir during her tenure as Prime Minister of the State of Israel. Do you share the perspective, akin to Golda Meir's, that terrorism can be combated with military force when necessary?


Terrorism is a scourge that Israel has gained significant experience in combatting. However, it's important to note that it cannot be effectively fought with one element alone; it requires a multifaceted approach. Intelligence is a primary tool, but international cooperation, legislation, education, and even the use of force when necessary must all be considered.

We must be prepared to utilize all available resources in the fight against terrorism because terror knows no boundaries, neither geographical nor moral.


  • How do you view the anti-Israeli declarations made by orchestra conductor Daniel Barenboim regarding the "disputed territories" with the Palestinians?


Daniel Barenboim is undeniably an influential conductor and a musician of international renown. Nevertheless, it is regrettable that he chooses to utilize his platform to condemn Israel and even endorse actions that support its boycott. His perspective on Israel's political situation appears to be biased and distorted. It is unfortunate when individuals unfairly criticize Israel, a vibrant democracy that confronts significant threats while steadfastly upholding Western values and freedoms.


I believe it's essential to work towards promoting coexistence between the Israeli and Palestinian communities. Through cultural, academic, and musical collaboration, what we refer to as "second-track diplomacy," bridges can be built, mutual recognition can be achieved, and mutual understanding can be enhanced. Concerning the Hebrew University of Jerusalem as an academic institution and the work of the Commission of the Uruguayan Friends of the UHJ in disseminating its mission, I have two questions for you:


  • How significant is the historical milestone of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, marked by the "Foundation Stone" on Mount Scopus or Har Hatzofim, in your perspective?


The 100th anniversary of the Foundation Stone at Har Hatsofim is indeed a cause for celebration, especially in this Jubilee year. In June, we commemorated the 50th anniversary of the unification of Jerusalem, our eternal capital, which stands as a symbol of the unity of the Jewish people and their profound connection to the land of Israel.

In addition to this significant jubilee, the Hebrew University's centenary further underscores the timeless bond between the people of Israel and Jerusalem.

  • To what extent do you believe the work carried out by the Friends of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Uruguay holds significance?


I extend my congratulations to the Friends of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Uruguay for their remarkable dedication and contributions to this esteemed Israeli academic institution. It is heartening to see individuals with vision and unwavering commitment actively supporting the university's growth and development.

This year, we had the privilege of hosting rectors from various Latin American universities at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, including representatives from three Uruguayan institutions - UDELAR, ORT University, and the Catholic University. We will continue to foster connections between both countries and the academic realm.


Thank you very much for your valuable insights and your time.


Published for: Magazine of the Uruguayan Friends of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Uruguay

Date: January 2017





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