Neil Wigan’s Hectic Days in Tel Aviv

Mace | Issue 1 | Magazine

From the Archive

His schedule is packed but there’s never a dull day for Neil Wigan, the British ambassador to Israel. He gives the lowdown on his life in Israel

In many ways my diplomatic career started right here in Israel, 15 years ago, when I was appointed as the embassy’s head of political section, as my first overseas job, during the Second Intifada. This makes my return to Israel so much more meaningful. The best morning was my first in the office, Friday 14 June. I had barely found my desk before I was at the Tel Aviv Pride Parade on our very own embassy float, going along the beach past 250,000 people. It was the best way to start a day, and a tour. The most difficult was when PM Netanyahu met Boris Johnson in London. We put it together at short notice at a very busy time for both (Israeli elections and Brexit). But it all came together and the visit went well. I am lucky enough to live in a beautiful official residence just outside Tel Aviv with an amazing garden, that also reflects UK-Israel relations. Big beautiful Mediterranean trees alongside English rose bushes. This is where we at the embassy host our events and entertain our g...

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