United by music: British Embassy in Israel hosts Eurovision Gala with singer Noa Kirel

The British and Ukrainian embassies in Israel held a formal Eurovision Gala in celebration of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest set to be hosted in Liverpool, the UK.

Held in partnership with EL AL airlines and the Israeli delegation to Eurovision led by Israel’s biggest popstar, Noa Kirel, the event was attended by more than 450 guests including influencers, former Eurovision stars, local celebrities, business contacts, government officials and a wide range of guests from Israel’s entertainment and culture industry.

Neil Wigan,  the UK’s Ambassador to Israel, Yevgen Korniychuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Israel, Dina Ben Tal, EL AL’s CEO, and Noa Kirel, Israel’s representative to Eurovision all spoke at the event.

One of the most popular events in the world, this year the UK will host Eurovision for the first time in 25 years in the name of Ukraine who won the competition in 2022.

The gala event was also a platform to raise awareness and support for Ukraine and included a one-of-a-kind menu inspired by traditional Ukrainian dishes.

Guests also enjoyed a unique Liverpool exhibition, nostalgic Eurovision moments and an exciting giveaway of two tickets to Liverpool, as part of EL AL’s special flight to honour this historic event.

Neil Wigan, UK’s Ambassador to Israel said: “It is not every day that we get to host a Eurovision event at the residence. The last time UK hosted Eurovision was 25 years ago, and I am very glad and honoured that the City of Liverpool has stepped in to host Eurovision this year on behalf of Ukraine.

“This is not only an opportunity to highlight the UK’s rich music history, its colourful city views and its historical and modern sites but also an opportunity to champion equality and diversity and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine during this difficult time.”

Yevgen Korniychuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Israel said: “Eurovision was always a celebration of joy and respect. It is a bright manifest of European diversity and unity at the same time. Ukraine is proud to be part of the European family and feel its unity and support in the most tragic days of our modern history.

“I am confident that Eurovision stage will soon be stationed in peaceful Ukraine and the vibes of the joy and victory will spread across the country. We highly appreciate and admire our British friends for hosting this year song contest on our behalf.”

Noa Kirel, Israel’s representative to Eurovision said: “It’s such a great honour for me to be able to sing in front of millions of people from all over the globe. I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to connect people through music.”

“Diversity and differences, that’s what makes us special and beautiful. I hope to bring honour and joy to my beloved country.”