KKL-JNF distributes diplomatic Xmas trees
Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), in cooperation with the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has celebrated the holiday season by distributing Arizona Cypress trees to diplomatic and consular missions in Israel for Christmas.
A tree destined for the Embassy of Germany Photo: KKL-JNF
These trees, grown specifically for this purpose at the northern Golani nursery, were given as part of a longstanding tradition that honours the friends of Israel across the world who celebrate Christmas while also protecting the environment by avoiding the cutting down of random trees and disturbing the ecological balance.
KKL-JNF is a sustainable development NGO established over 120 years ago. It serves as the Forest Service for the State of Israel and works to sustainably develop, protect, and preserve the land for future generations.
The Head of International Government Relations at KKL-JNF Victoria Myrav said: “KKL-JNF, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, gives Arizona Cypress trees, which were grown especially for this purpose, to Diplomatic and Consular Missions in Israel, to celebrate Christmas with their families during the holiday season. This long-standing tradition was initiated to honour our friends from around the world who celebrate the holiday, prevent cutting down trees and promote environmental protection. We wish a happy Chanukah and merry Christmas to our dear friends celebrating.”
Christmas trees started is a German custom brought to Great Britain by Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert and the custom then spread worldwide with the tree decorated and present placed under the tree. It custom even spread to countries where Christianity is not the dominant religion like Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and parts of West Asia (so called Middle East).