A European Jewish Congress (EJC) delegation held high-level discussions with Polish leaders in Warsaw on Tuesday, July 7, 2009. Topics which was discussed included restitution of Jewish communal and private property, Polish-Israel and EU-Israel relations, jointly fighting the scourge of anti-Semitism across Europe, initiatives that foster tolerance in Poland and throughout Europe, Holocaust education for students, teachers and members of the clergy, and other issues of importance.

Led by EJC President Dr. Moshe Kantor, the delegation met with President Lech Kaczyński and Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski as well as with members of the local Jewish community.

In their meetings, EJC leaders proposed concrete programs and activities on Holocaust education, fighting anti-Semitism and promoting tolerance as well as Poland’s leading role in supporting Holocaust remembrance and commemoration. Likewise, discussions also adressed the issue of Polish restitution of Jewish property which was confiscated during the Nazi and Communist eras.

On the eve of the visit, EJC President Kantor remarked, “In Europe, it is clear that we are standing at an important crossroads of history. As Europeans, we therefore have a special opportunity and obligation to work together to build a tolerant community of nations, regardless of race or religion.”

Kantor added, “The Government of Poland has long been an important ally and partner of the State of Israel and of Jewish communities in Europe. So many issues that affect Jewish communities are of equal importance to general society both in Poland and throughout Europe : fighting xenophobia, racism and anti-Semitism, educating the next generation about the Holocaust, preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and fostering tolerance throughout Europe. We look forward to continuing this important relationship and robust cooperation with the government of Poland.”