The president-elect, in town on an official visit and in support of the Israel Allies Foundation annual event, visited with local leaders and planted a tree through Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) in the Hula Valley.
“I am amazed by how KKL-JNF has flourished the wilderness and has done so with such love and ‘knowhow,’” Giammattei said at the planting on Monday. “Guatemala honors and respects what the Jewish people have done here, and our friendship is one that will last.”
Giammattei toured the newly opened Hula Valley Bird Center during his visit up north, as well.
During his visit, the president-elect also met with Blue and White No. 2 Yair Lapid, was part of a special meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and met with President Reuven Rivlin. At that meeting, he made an announcement that he would designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organization after taking office.
“Just two days ago we were all moved by your vow, my friend President elect, that Guatemala will outlaw Hezbollah, a murderous terror organization and an enemy to the state of Israel," said KKL-JNF world chairman Daniel Atar. " Hearing these things from you, bestows upon us the feeling of true friendship and partnership, which I know will last. I wish to thank you for your warm and kind words and for being a brave friend to the state and people of Israel."Giammattei also said that he would consider joining the United States in its new stance on Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Last month, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the settlements are not illegal.
The president-elect concluded his visit to the country with a festive dinner at the Friends of Zion Museum in Jerusalem.
The Friends of Zion Museum is the brainchild of Dr. Mike Evans, a prominent Evangelical Christian leader and author. Giammattei is also an Evangelical Christian. He said during his visit that he supports the State of Israel out of faith.KKL-JNF World Chairman Daniel Atar: “Just two days ago we were all moved by your vow, my friend President elect, that Guatemala will outlaw Hezbollah, a murderous terror organization and an enemy to the state of Israel.