- August 4, 2024
- 12:15 am
- Ukraine
The head of the International Charitable Foundation named after Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav, Natan Ben Nun, met with the Consul of Israel in Ukraine, Kati Nachshon. They discussed consular services for pilgrims arriving in Uman to celebrate the Jewish New Year – Rosh Hashanah 5785. The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Ambassador of Israel Liron Finkelstein and other representatives of the embassy.
The meeting was held at the offices of the International Charitable Foundation of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov and focused on logistics and security for the event. Participants also visited historical sites in Uman, including Rabbi Nachman’s grave and a large synagogue in the pilgrimage area, highlighting the city’s cultural significance to the Hasidic community.
This is reported by United Jewish Community of Ukraine.
Natan Ben Nun noted that joint activities with Israeli consular services are aimed not only at religious revival, but also at increasing the level of mutual understanding and cooperation between the countries.
To conclude the day, Israeli officials met with local police to further coordinate security during the important religious event.
Earlier, rescuers from Uman in the Cherkasy region began preparing for the arrival of the Bratslav Hasidim. An interdepartmental commission was created to inspect buildings for shelters and their condition. The working group checked the buildings in the pilgrimage area, assessing the possibility of using basements and ground floors as shelters. Particular attention was paid to ventilation, medical care and the availability of drinking water. Rescuers also reminded about the rules of conduct when explosive objects are discovered and the importance of not ignoring the “Air raid” signal.
Also, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Israel Yevhen Korniychuk held a working meeting with the Minister of Religious Affairs of Israel Michael Malkieli. Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman was present at the meeting. Bilateral relations, political dialogue, interaction at the interregional level, especially during the celebration of Rosh Hashanah in Uman were discussed.
It was noted that Israel's decision to introduce an electronic visa (ETA-IL) for Ukrainian citizens has a negative impact on relations. However, the parties welcomed a 5-month delay, until January 1, 2025. Israel's participation in the Babi Yar memorial ceremony, which will be held in Kyiv on September 29, was also discussed.
The parties agreed that the peoples of Ukraine and Israel, especially in difficult times of war, understand and support each other.
Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and support: “The conversation with Minister Malkieli and Ambassador Korniychuk emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and support between our peoples. Together we can achieve great results, preserving our traditions and values, and most importantly – together to defeat evil!”
These meetings are important for strengthening Ukrainian-Israeli relations and coordinating joint efforts in religious and cultural events. They contribute to better mutual understanding and support between the countries, especially in the context of current challenges. Support for pilgrims and coordination of security demonstrate the commitment of both sides to preserving cultural traditions and ensuring the safe holding of important religious events. The postponement of the introduction of an electronic visa is a positive step in regulating visa issues, which also contributes to the development of bilateral relations.
