Throughout the course of human history, the Land of Israel came under the control of the Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek and Roman Empires when they conquered the region. History proves that Israel had maritime and trade links with Sri Lanka even before these Empires took control, which benefitted both countries.
When Israel was reestablished in 1948, Sri Lanka was the 1st Asian Country to recognize Israel as a nation and rebuild the relationship once again. Thereafter, on two occasions the ties between Israel and Sri Lanka ceased, due to political decisions taken by various governments ruling Sri Lanka. It is unfortunate that the historical relationship between the two countries did not restore to its original status.
Israel which was reestablished 1948 on a desert land and being one third the size of Sri Lanka, gained quick progress in various fields, thereby paving the path for development and was transformed into a Global Economic Powerhouse within the span of 75 years.
After taking into consideration the historical relationship between the two countries spanning over 3700 years and identifying the strengths and benefits of restoring a relationship with Israel, the Israel-Sri Lanka Solidarity Movement (ISSOM) was formed in 2018. The aim of ISSOM is to recreate a solid partnership with Israel and to reach a level where Sri Lanka will be self-sufficient and prosperous.
ISSOM will work towards obtaining Israeli expertise in the fields of agriculture, health, education, economics and technology, paving the path for development. Consequently, Sri Lanka needs to be an independent state without being under the influence of Geo-politics which would be helpful for Sri Lanka’s existence.
It is the belief of ISSOM that the reestablishment of the 3700-year-old relationship between the two countries will no doubt help Sri Lanka to become a self-sufficient nation with advanced technology systems and beneficial methods followed according to the advice and training by the Israelis.
To be the catalyst that reawakens and enhances the harmony and cooperation between two ancient civilizations of " Israel and Sri Lanka".
To strengthen vibrant diplomatic relationships between Sri Lanka and Israel. To foster goodwill between our nations, by facilitating mutually rewarding partnerships for the furtherance of Solidarity and Prosperity.
A Synoptic Overview of Israel-Sri Lanka Solidarity Movement
Israel Sri Lanka Solidarity Movement(ISSOM) is a People’s Movement that seeks to garner and awaken the support of the silent majority that form approximately 85-90 percent of the Sri Lankan population, to stand in support of Israel. We relentlessly spread the truth of Israel, using every tool of advocacy to rebut the biased Global Narrative spread through popular media, that results in defaming misinformation against Israel. We vociferously defend Israel as the only Practicing Democracy in the Middle East.
As a People’s Movement, we wish to influence our Government Leaders and people to take a Fair Stand, in Support of Israel, who is an unrivalled leader in the world, in life transforming multi sectoral contributions.
We seek to make Sri Lanka a loyal supporter of Israel in International Fora. We also champion the cause of recognizing the inalienable rights of Israel and the Jewish people to her Ancient Indivisible Capital of Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria .
The pressure we are gradually building by a strong advocacy campaign and productive engagement for the cause of Israel, is spreading through Schools, Universities, Private and Public sectors, Civil societies, Buddhist Temples, Christian Churches, Hindu Kovils, Academics, Thought Leaders and Media Networks.
We also wish to uplift our challenged Agricultural, Education, Economy and Health sectors by the Excellence and Brilliance of Israeli Expertise and thereby develop a perpetual, impactful loyal and reciprocal bond between our two nations that have an Undisputed Shared Heritage and Trade Relations of over 3 Millenia (3000 Years), according to reliable and well researched historical records.