The EJA King Solomon Award was presented to former President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades on Monday evening in Larnaca.
The award was presented at an event organised by the European Jewish Association in collaboration with the Jewish Community of Cyprus. The event was attended, among others, by former President of Israel, Reuven Rivlin.
Speaking at the event former President Anastasiades said that the award is a testament to the principles that both countries share, such as Democracy and tolerance, peace and understanding, the fight against anti-Semitism, racism and all forms of human rights violations.
He went on to say that the bilateral partnership during his Presidency was manifested by tangible projects, be it in defence and emergency response, to energy, culture, in healthcare, to diaspora interaction and to making the Jewish community in Cyprus feel an integral part of the island’s rich cultural interactions.
The former President expressed his hope that prudence will prevail that will eventually allow the resumption of meaningful negotiations to resume between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, leading to a viable two – state solution, in line with internationally agreed parameters and in full respect of Israel’s territorial integrity and security.
Reuven Rivlin, former President of Israel said that they will never ever forget that the Cypriots were the only people that felt that they have to help those refugees who came from the Holocaust, and they gave them a shelter.
He said that today we need to combat anti-Semitism anti Zionism, racism and hatred, adding that what we are facing “is not freedom fighters, we are facing terrorists”.
Yaron Zeloof, Head of the JCC, the Jewish Community in Cyprus said that over the years, the community has grown into a dynamic group that contributes to life in Cyprus, adding that its members work in many fields, such as real estate, education, and tourism.
Zeloof also said that they pray for the quick and safe return of the hostages held in Gaza.
Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Head of EJA said that the Jews in Cyprus feel safe, respected and happy.
“The Jewish in Cyprus will continue to enjoy great relationship and we have no doubt that Cyprus will be a light upon our nation and a great example to all of the countries in Europe what kind of relation should have between a country, the Jewish people and the state of Israel”, he said.
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Source: CNA
