AIPAC Minyan Mission to East Asia Highlights Growing Ties—and Personal Commitment to Israel’s Future
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From October 21-29, 2025, Manette and Louis Mayberg joined AIPAC’s Minyan Mission to East Asia (South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan), an enriching experience that provided deep insights into the trilateral relationship between the United States, Israel, and these strategically important nations. The mission began in Seoul, where the delegation visited the demilitarized zone along the North Korean border and the Korean War Memorial. Together the group explored South Korea’s growing relationship with Israel in conversations with South Korea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun and Minister of Trade Yeo Han-koo as well as Israel's Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Rafael Harpaz.
From there, the group traveled to Taiwan where they heard from Republic of China President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, and Minister of Defense Wellington Li-Hsiung Koo. The leadership spoke in depth about Israel and Taiwan’s mutually supportive relationship and about opportunities to expand those important ties. They also expressed profound gratitude for their relationship with the United States and their hope to see those ties deepen even further. In Taiwan our delegation also experienced an unprecedented Shabbat celebration at the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Jewish Community Center and explored some of Taipei’s historical landmarks.
The mission concluded in Tokyo, where the group heard from Ambassador of the State of Israel to Japan Gilad Cohen, and Japanese Ambassador to the United States Shigeo Yamada. Both Ambassadors talked about the historic moment we are in and the opportunity to expand the diplomatic and economic relationships between Israel, Japan, and the U.S.
ROC President Lai Ching-te’s Tweet about the aipac minyan mission
Reflecting on the experience Manette shared, "It was remarkable to hear government leaders in Seoul speak about shared values with Israel, specifically family and education. In Taipei we heard repeatedly that Taiwan and Israel are both small countries and face looming enemies.”
She added, “Both countries’ officials expressed overwhelming support for Israel and admiration for the tenacity and strength of the Israeli people. Some even went so far as to say they can only hope their people would prove as strong and resilient as the Israelis if tested."
Manette and Louis’ participation in this mission reflected their personal commitment to supporting and strengthening the vital trilateral relationships among Israel, the United States, and key partners in East Asia. Their involvement highlights the importance of the shared values—democracy, security, and mutual respect—that bind these countries together and ensure each country’s long-term security and prosperity.
Read more about this growing partnership: Citing Biblical story, Taiwan president says Israel is a model for island's defence