Vivian Aisen will be ambassador of Israel to Colombia following unanimous approval of her appointment by the government, announced by the Foreign Ministry in July. The appointment is part of efforts by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar to renew relations between Israel and Colombia amid a broader rapprochement between Israel and Latin American countries.
Aisen previously served as ambassador in Macedonia and headed the Central America Department of the Israeli Foreign Ministry. She also served in Israeli embassies in London and Chile, as well as in missions in Brussels and to the European Union.
In a video published on social media, Aisen expressed her enthusiasm about arriving in Colombia. "What joy and what pride for me to represent Israel in this beautiful land," she said, highlighting her admiration for Colombian culture, gastronomy, music and art. Aisen added that she is a dance enthusiast and that salsa is one of her favourite genres.
Israel and Colombia are expected to fully restore their diplomatic relations following the new Colombian president's inauguration on 7 August. The process will include the immediate appointment of ambassadors, the opening of a Colombian embassy in Jerusalem and additional joint initiatives. President Gustavo Petro severed diplomatic relations with Israel in May 2024 over Israeli military operations in Gaza, though he criticised the restoration of ties after the new appointment was announced.