Nauru Opens Embassy in Jerusalem, Ninth Nation to Do So

The Republic of Nauru officially inaugurated its embassy in Jerusalem on Sunday, becoming the ninth country to establish a diplomatic mission in Israel's capital. The opening ceremony was attended by Nauru's Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lionel Rouwen Aingimea, and Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi.

Ashkenazi hailed Nauru as one of Israel's "most loyal and steadfast friends" internationally, commending their recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and consistent support at the United Nations. "You have stood by us consistently at the UN. Nauru stood with Israel and with the truth," he stated.

Vice President Aingimea explained that the decision stemmed from a conversation with Ashkenazi in Fiji, emphasizing Nauru's motto, "God First," and a special place for Israel in their hearts. He expressed belief that supporting Israel brings divine blessings and noted significant appreciation for Israel within Nauru. Aingimea also highlighted Nauru's voting alignment with Israel at the UN, stating it currently stands at 71% and is expected to increase.

Nauru joins the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Kosovo, Paraguay, Somaliland, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji in having an embassy in Jerusalem. Israel's Foreign Ministry is actively encouraging more nations to relocate their embassies to the capital. Recent announcements from Colombia and the Dominican Republic indicate their intention to move their embassies to Jerusalem, potentially expanding this trend.

Israel and Nauru share close and friendly diplomatic relations. The Foreign Ministry anticipates that the new embassy will further boost bilateral cooperation in political, economic, and civilian sectors, including health, innovation, agriculture, water management, and climate change adaptation. Jerusalem views this move as a further reflection of the deep ties between the two nations.