Israel and Bolivia Embark On Diplomatic Renewal

The foreign ministry of Israel moved swiftly to congratulate Bolivia’s newly‑elected president, Rodrigo Paz, signaling a fresh chapter in the relationship between the State of Israel and Bolivia. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the president‑elect on Monday, affirming that Israel intends to send a representative to Paz’s inauguration and emphasising that the two nations have a long shared history of friendship with the Jewish people.

For decades, the diplomatic link between Israel and Bolivia has seen dramatic highs and lows. Official relations were first established in 1950, but over the past twenty years Bolivia adopted a more vocally anti‑Israel posture, including formally severing ties in 2009 and again in 2023 following military developments in Gaza.

In their call, Sa’ar underlined his country’s readiness “to open a new chapter” and to “advance cooperation in a wide range of fields for the benefit of both nations.” He noted that after two decades of strained relations, the time has come to “get our friendly relations back on track.”

President‑elect Paz told Sa’ar of his intent to “lead Bolivia to reopen to the world” and to renew diplomatic relations with Israel. His victory 56 % narrowly over his rival in a runoff marks a turning point after nearly two decades of leftist rule in Bolivia. His party lacks a legislative majority, however, and must build alliances to govern effectively.

The path ahead will involve reopening embassies, returning ambassadors and expanding cooperation in areas such as trade, technology, agriculture and water management. Israeli officials view this restore‑and‑expand approach as an opportunity to rebuild ties with one of Latin America’s strategically located nations.

This diplomatic thaw is significant for Israel. It reaffirms Israel’s global outreach even during a time of conflict and underscores the fundamental value of alliances based on shared history, democracy and mutual benefit. Bolivia’s return to the fold would strengthen Israel’s network of partnerships in Latin America, helping to bridge regional divides and restore broad‑based support.

By rekindling relations with Bolivia, Israel demonstrates its enduring commitment to renewing and strengthening friendships around the world friends who share its values, appreciate the Jewish people’s homeland and believe in constructive international cooperation.

We invite you to share this article, and if you’d like to stay updated on Israel’s global diplomatic efforts and partnerships, please subscribe to our newsletter.