On [July 9], Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited Vienna, where he met with the leadership of the Jewish Community of Vienna (IKG), represented by Vice Presidents Michael Galibov and Claudia Prutscher, as well as other representatives of the local Jewish community.
The confidential exchange focused on the diversity of the Jewish community in Vienna, its unwavering solidarity with Israel, the current situation in the region, and the wellbeing of the hostages still held in Gaza.
As a token of appreciation, the IKG vice presidents presented the distinguished guest with a Simon Wiesenthal commemorative coin and a traditional Viennese snow globe featuring a menorah – a symbolic keepsake of his visit.
Minister Sa’ar showed particular interest upon learning that Vice President Michael Galibov is of Bukharian Jewish heritage. He inquired with genuine curiosity about the number of Bukharian synagogues in Vienna. He also asked how many of the community’s institutions are operated by Bukharian Jews. Galibov explained that of Vienna’s 22 synagogues, eight are run by Bukharian Jews, and of the approximately 12 kosher restaurants and supermarkets, around 90% are Bukharian-owned. The minister appeared surprised and noted that he, too, has Bukharian roots.
His focused questions about Bukharian involvement highlighted the significant contribution that Bukharian Jews continue to make to Jewish life – not only in Vienna, but around the world.
Another highlight of the visit was a tour of the Vienna Stadttempel, which will celebrate its 200 th anniversary next year. Following the High Holidays, the historic synagogue is scheduled for a full renovation and restoration.
The visit by Minister Sa’ar sent a clear message of solidarity with Vienna’s Jewish community and reaffirmed the strong partnership between Austria and Israel during these challenging times.
Statement by Michael Galibov, Vice President of the Jewish Community Vienna (IKG):
“Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar’s visit was a powerful gesture of solidarity and appreciation toward the Jewish community in Vienna. At a time when Jewish communities around the world are facing increasing challenges, this personal exchange with a high-ranking Israeli official was both encouraging and meaningful. I was especially touched by his interest in the Bukharian Jewish community in Vienna, which has been actively contributing to the city’s vibrant Jewish life for decades. The fact that Minister Sa’ar also shares Bukharian roots added a special, personal dimension to this important meeting.”
Translated from
The Bukharian Times
Credit: „Christine Schmidl IKG-Wien“
The last picture in the Synagoge –
credit: „Shalev Man“