On October 9th, 2007, EFI hosted a cocktail dinner in Brussels for the inauguration of its new offices. This evening allowed us once again to gather friends of Israel amongst members of the European Parliament, of National Parliaments but also representatives from permanent national representations of some Member States as well as other policy advisors between one another. More than 100 personalities attended this event in order to demonstrate their strong commitment to support EFI and Israel. 

In his inaugural speech, MEP Gunnar HOKMARK, Chairman of EFI’s Steering Committee, warmly welcomed all the guests and emphasized on the important role played by the structure of EFI since a year, to enhance the relation between the European Union and Israel. He called for a reinforcement of our commitment to implement a better dialogue between Israel and the EU and regarding the engagement of EFI, he strongly stated that “we are in Brussels and we are here to stay!” 

We also have been honored by the presence of  H.E Mr.Ran CURIEL, Ambassador of Israel to the European Union who expressed the same vows regarding the role that EFI could play in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of our structure to improve the better mutual understanding of both sides to reach this goal. 

Mr. H-G POETTERING, President of the European Parliament has not been able to attend our event. However, he addressed us a note in which he regretted not being able to join us stating his confidence on the role that a friendship group as EFI can play in the spreading of values such as democracy and peace in the Middle East and transmitted his warmer sustain to all EFI’s members.