Mumbai: Israel’s Consul General to Mumbai expressed solidarity with the Hindu community in Bangladesh, condemning the violence and persecution faced by them at the World Hindu Economic Forum. His remarks have come at a time when the plight of Bangladeshi Hindus has drawn international attention and concern.
Consul General Of Israel To Mumbai Expresses Profound Solidarity
During a plenary session at the annual global conference of the WHEF 2024 hosted in Mumbai, Kobbi Shoshani, the Consul General of Israel to Mumbai, expressed profound solidarity with the Bangladesh Hindus. Shoshani emphasised the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by the minority community and said that “what is happening there is unacceptable.”
He articulated a shared understanding of suffering, drawing on the historical experiences of Jews who have lived in India without fear or persecution. “We understand what it is for daughters and children to be murdered and butchered by criminals,” he added, referencing the recent tragedies that have impacted both communities.
Kobbi Shoshani Expresses Gratitude To PM Modi & The Indian Govt
In his address, Shoshani extended gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for their support towards both Israel and Bangladeshi Hindus. He remarked that Israel will never forget what happened to them on October 7 last year and highlighted the importance of solidarity in combating terrorism.
The Consul General noted that both Israel and India share similarities in their challenges related to security and extremism. Shoshani also pointed out that crises can lead to innovation, citing advancements in telecommunications and medical technology.
He emphasized the importance of strong military and economic foundations for both nations. “You can’t have a strong economy with a weak army,” he said, reinforcing that military strength is essential for economic stability. He described India as Israel’s biggest friend in Asia and underscored the need for continued collaboration between the two nations.
He expressed admiration for Bharat’s vibrant culture and its significant contributions to global society. He stated, “We love Bharat because of shared family values, traditions, customs, social structure, and our common fight against terrorism.”
Session on Bharat-Israel Collaboration Opportunities at WHEF 2024 |
Adv. Aaron Solomon, member of Bharatiya-Jewish Community
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Adv. Aaron Solomon Reflects On The Relationship Between India & Israel
Introducing a special plenary session on ‘Bharat-Israel Collaboration Opportunities’, Adv. Aaron Solomon, a member of the Bharatiya-Jewish community, reflected on the unique relationship between both the countries. He noted that both nations have grown closer due to mutual respect and need. “Bharat has provided us refuge and it is the only place where we Jews have never faced any anti-Semitism,” Solomon said.
He also highlighted the historical presence of Jews in India, stating that their ancestors arrived on the Konkan coast around 2000 years ago. Solomon mentioned that while there were over 50,000 Bharatiya Jews when he was a teenager, today only about 4,000 remain who have adapted and assimilated with native Bharatiya culture. He also said that many Indian Jews have settled in Israel but continue to contribute to India’s growth journey and cherish fond memories.
