Notes

Robert Singer, WJC CEO on a trip to Moldova insists on the importance of Holocaust preservation and the need to adopt an anti-semitism definition that is universal

CHISINAU (MOLDOVA) Chisinau (MOLDOVA). World Jewish Congress CEO Robert Singer met with top officials from the government and the leaders of the local Jewish community this week in Moldova to discuss issues like the protection of Holocaust memories and education, the security of the Jewish community, and combating antisemitism at all levels. WJC comprised Mikhail Mirilashvili (President of EuroAsian Jewish Congress) and Alexander Bilinkis (President of the Moldovan Jewish Association) as well as Haim Benjamin Yaakov (Director General, EuroAsian Jewish Congress).
Singer said that the World Jewish Congress sincerely thanks the Moldovan government, for its gracious reception and for its pledge to protect the memory of Holocaust victims. "Our community in Moldova is small but is strong and committed. We ask the Republic of Moldova that it place anti-Semitism at the top of its list. We are ready to help in any way we can. We are looking forward and wish to continue cooperation with the government in order to protect the health of our community.

The following day, Singer discussed with Tudor Ulianovschi the negative nature of adopting an International Holocaust Remembrance Association's definitions of antisemitism. He also stressed the importance to condemn anti-Semitism publicly. Minister Ulianovschi spoke out in support of the Moldovan authorities and highlighted their determination to build an inclusive society. Ulianovschi was also grateful to Singer for the WJC's positive cooperation with Moldova. Republic of Moldova.

The foreign minister also mentioned that the Chisinau legislature in 2016 adopted an acceptance declaration of the final report compiled by the International Commission on Holocaust Studies. Additionally, in January of 2017, the Government approved the Action Plan on its execution.


PHOTOGRAPH of the World Jewish Congress delegation, which includes Moldovan Jewish Community President Alexander Bilinkis (far left) and WJC CEO Robert Singer (second left) meeting with Moldovan Foreign Minister Tudor Ulianovschi (second right). (c) World Jewish Congress

Singer and WJC representatives visited Moldova's Minister of Economy and Infrastructure Chiril Gaburici on Wednesday, to discuss possibility of restitution and the economic value of Jewish property in Moldova. This included cemeteries that require renovation as well as opportunities to slaughter kosher. Concerning the preservation and rehabilitation of Jewish cemeteries the minister expressed an interest in helping to facilitate the procedure. A pilot program of 10 sites was scheduled across the country.

Singer as well as the WJC delegation met with Monica Babuc (Moldova's Education Minister) to discuss ways they can help teachers learn about Holocaust education and preserve memories. The discussion included the creation of an Museum of Jewish History, the preservation of Holocaust memorials, and the importance of properly maintaining Jewish cemetery. Singer expressed gratitude to Minister Babuc for her attention and commitment to both fields of education and Holocaust commemoration, and also in maintaining a productive and ongoing partnership with the Jewish community.

Mirilashvili, Singer, and Bilinkis have also met with the Chairman of the Democratic Party of Moldova, Vlad Plahotniuc, for talks regarding relations with the Jewish community and the Republic of Moldova's bilateral ties with the State of Israel.


PHOTOGRAPH. From left from right: Emmanuil Greinshpun, Moldovan President of the Jewish community, EAJC President Mikhail Mirilashvili CEO Robert Singer, Monica Babuc and Haim Ben Yoakov, Moldovan Education Minister. (c), World Jewish Congress

Singer met with the Rabbis representing the Jewish communities of Moldova. He discussed key concerns regarding the practice of religion and the services offered. Singer also focused on ways to improve Jewish everyday life in all its aspects.

Moldova is home to more than 20,000 Jews. The Moldovan Jewish Community is nearly 20.000 strong in the present, following having been devastated by the Shoah in the past and a bloody civil war. The Jews of Moldova are experiencing a surge in self-confidence and a return back to their origins. They're proud of their Jewish tradition and culture which is celebrated through music, literature and the theater. The Moldovan Jewish Community is the Moldovan member of the World Jewish Congress - represents the Moldovan Jewish Community.
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