ISRAEL'S DIRECTOR OF BALKAN STATES
MAYIM MAGAZINE
15
“Being in a new country where you are serving, you are looking at the joint history with Israel. The most important is the fact that Denmark, since the state of Israel was born, was one of Israel’s biggest supporters. Denmark was behind the scenes in the UN, and afterwards. For many years, Denmark was one of Israel’s closest allies; also, in the European Union (EU).”
Dan also mentions that, during WWII, Denmark saved most of its Jewish People. They were assisted in escaping to Sweden by Denmark’s local fishermen. Albania played a special part in WWII, as well. “I am happy to say that Albania is also a country that saved its Jews. There were more Jews in Albania after the Holocaust than before it. This is something that did not happen in many other places.”
During his time of duty in Denmark, Dan was involved in setting up economic meetings. The Israeli Embassy made connections between business people, and organized official visits for presidents. One large event was on the environment, with a delegation of 100 people coming from Israel. And, again, Dan brought many Israeli writers, poets, dancers and film producers to cultural gatherings there, including book fairs.
In Copenhagen, Dan authored and published a children’s book in Danish called, When Dad Grows Up. A Danish television crew also created a promotional video of his gymnastic tricks while he was wearing a business suit and tie. Dan continued to try and remain strong and flexible while looking for new projects and ideas that were relevant and interesting to both Danes and Israelis.