According to a popular Thai belief, the tolling of bells opens the gates of prayer. In this spirit, the Queen of Thailand decided to award a Bell of Friendship to the Arava, which was installed at Sapir Park, as a sign of appreciation for the Region’s special concern for Thai workers over the past 20 years. On April 26, a gala and touching ceremony was held, at which the Bell of Friendship was unveiled by Thai Ambassador Kasivat Paruggamanont and Regional Council Head Lilach Morgan.

Arava Development Co. Director Gilad Livni says that “workers who come here are happy because they not only work for us but become part of our families. Cooperation has increased over the years and in addition to these workers, we now also have many Thai students at our Arava International Center for Agricultural Trainees.”