A delegation from the European Jewish Congress (EJC), consisting of President Dr Ariel Muzicant, Executive Vice-President and CEO Raya Kalenova, and the Presidents of EJC-affiliated communities, participated in the event marking the 145th anniversary of Jewish citizenship in Romania, held in Bucharest. The event was organised by the Romanian government under the leadership of Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu, in collaboration with the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania, led by its President, MP Silviu Vexler, and his team.
Throughout the day, the delegation was warmly received by high-ranking Romanian politicians at their respective premises, showcasing the nation’s strong and long-standing commitment to fostering Jewish life and combating antisemitism both nationally and across Europe. This unprecedented event highlighted the Romanian government’s enduring dedication to protecting Jewish communities and supporting the State of Israel. It was a powerful display of friendship, understanding, and commitment to the security of the Jewish people.
The event was imbued with deep emotion, making it truly unforgettable, as members of the delegation expressed their gratitude for witnessing the vibrant Jewish community in Romania. The respect and appreciation shown by the government towards the President of the Jewish community and its members were profoundly evident to all those who participated.
The first meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the delegation held an important discussion with Minister of Foreign Affairs Luminița Odobescu and diplomats involved in the fight against antisemitism, showcasing Romania’s global efforts in this matter and its defence of the State of Israel. During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated that Romania is among those “who did not and will not forget what happened on 7 October and are committed to the liberation of the hostages.” She emphasised the need to expand the Abraham Accords to bring peace and stability to the Middle East, asserting that Israel could count on Romania as an ally in this endeavour. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of teaching Holocaust history as a means to combat antisemitism and prevent history from repeating itself, noting the significant progress made in this area.
Following this, they held a meeting at Victoria Palace with Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu and his cabinet, which included the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Internal Affairs, Minister of Defence, and the Minister of Economy. During this meeting, Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu welcomed the EJC delegation and assured them of Romania’s support for the Jewish people and the State of Israel, which he referred to as “a strategic partner of the country in the Middle East.” He condemned the 7 October massacre and emphasised his support for Israel’s right to self-defence against the terrorist threat, calling for the unconditional release of the hostages held in the Gaza Strip. He also noted that Romania was the first EU country to introduce Holocaust history into the high-school curriculum, in collaboration with President Silviu Vexler, stressing the importance of everyone understanding the realities of history
The delegation was warmly received by the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Mr Daniel Suciu, and the President of the Senate, Mr Nicolae Ciucă, in the Palace of the Parliament, where they discussed legislative efforts aimed at protecting and fostering Jewish life in the country.
Throughout the meetings, EJC President Dr Ariel Muzicant expressed gratitude for the Romanian government’s support and friendship towards Jewish communities. He emphasised the urgent need to combat the “nightmare” of antisemitism and the rising tide of hatred in Europe, underscoring the importance of protecting Jewish citizens and institutions. He highlighted the threats posed by extremists in the political sphere and by Islamist groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas, calling for a robust defence of democracies and European values to ensure that Jewish life in Europe can thrive and develop. His remarks were warmly received and applauded.
The delegation also attended the unveiling of a national currency dedicated to the 145th anniversary of Jewish citizenship in Romania at the National Bank of Romania, where they met the Governor of the National Bank and visited the Choral Temple.
A highlight of the event was a commemoration of the expulsion of Jewish musicians and artists from cultural institutions during the Holocaust. At the start, participants heard addresses by the President of the State of Israel Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Romanian Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu, and the President of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania, MP Silviu Vexler. The official part was followed by an unforgettable concert performed by the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Zubin Mehta, alongside celebrated pianist Martha Argerich. More than four thousand people attended this unique event, including ministers, members of parliament, and prominent figures, showcasing their solidarity and support for the Romanian Jewish community. The concert was followed by a State Dinner hosted by the Government of Romania for the participants.