Ambassador of Sweden to Israel: “The message from Sweden is clear – We will not accept anti-Semitism”!

At a farewell event at the Swedish Embassy residence in Israel, Embassy staff, journalists and eurofans had the opportunity to wish Eden Golan the best of luck, just before she left for Malmö for Eurovision 2024. The Swedish Ambassador, Erik Ullenhag, also mentioned in the demonstrations taking place in his country against the participation of Israel, stating that the message from Sweden is clear in favor of Israel and that they are not going to accept the anti-Semitism that has been growing rapidly lately.

Sweden and the E.U. stand by Israel’s security

The Swedish Ambassador opened his speech with the tragic events of October 7th.

As a citizen of Sweden, a country at peace – it is hard to digest what your country is going through in these tragic times. Sweden and the European Union stand and will stand by Israel’s security and the two-state solution.

However, the most important point of his speech was what he mentioned about the rapid increase of anti-Semitism in Sweden, which, as he made clear, will not be accepted by the government of his country.

It is important for me to welcome the Israeli delegation to Malmö. I know many are calling for a boycott. I know it hurts to know that people in Europe and especially in Sweden feel anti-Semitism right now. The message from Sweden is clear – we will never accept anti-Semitism, we will never accept the refusal of everyone to participate, so welcome to Malmö!

Eden: Excitement is greater than fear

For her part, Eden Golan expressed her eagerness to be in Malmö to represent Israel in the contest, saying that the excitement is greater than the fear she may be feeling at the moment.

I am very excited to fly to Malmö. The excitement is greater than the fear and I have positive energy. This is such an important year with a different message and meaning, and that is so important to be there. I know that they will welcome us with open arms, and that they will do everything to keep us safe.

The Israeli delegation this year will be the most guarded delegation ever at the Eurovision contest. Eden Golan will only make the necessary appearances, while she will not even be at the reception ceremony on the turquoise carpet, honoring that day as Holocaust Day.

Israel participates in Eurovision 2024 with the song Hurricane and Eden Golan. She competes in the second semi-final on May 9, with the betting currently placing her in ninth place to win.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the updates!

Source: Euromix