Azerbaijan-Israel International Association set up

The chairman of the State Committee for Azerbaijanis Living Abroad Nazim Ibrahimov read to the attendees Azerbaijan president's congratulation letter, APA reports.

Touching on Azerbaijan-Jew historical ties, Nazim Ibrahimov called these relations an example of cordial friendship. He said Jews lived in Azerbaijan for 2000 years but have never been persecuted or suffered indignity. The Committee chairman said Azerbaijan has Jewish population of 16 thousand at present.

"Azerbaijani Jewish community never suffered from anti-Semitism either in the past or now," he stressed.

Nazim Ibrahimov hoped Azerbaijan-Israel International Association will strongly contribute to the bilateral cooperation.
Deputy Israel's Prime Minister, Minister for Strategic Planning, the leader of Israel- Our Home Party Avigdor Liberman congratulated participants and highly appreciated Azerbaijan-Israel relations.

He said the Association is a result of public diplomacy and it will contribute Azerbaijan–Israel relations positively. Another Deputy Prime Minister, Transport minister, general Shaul Mofaz welcomed the initiative of establishing Diaspora organization by Jews immigrated from Azerbaijan to Israel. He said Azerbaijani-originated Jewish played important role in the development of Israel society.

"It is to be appraised that immigrants from Azerbaijan after living in Israel for 10-15 years and becoming true Israel citizens do not forget their root, languages, religions, traditions," he underlined.

Israel's Tourism Minister Iskhaki Aaaronovic emphasized common features for Azerbaijani and Israel nations. He said new organization creates new opportunities.

After addressing, the conference adopted the regulations. Former Baku resident, Israel Knesset's member Iosif Shagal was elected the chairman of the Association. Nekhamiya Mikhaeli, Alex Shapiro and Nina Yarovaya became vice–presidents.

Iosif Shagal stated that he would work to strengthen political, economical and cultural relations between the two nations. He said Nazim Ibarhimov's and Israel Knesset members' participation enhanced the importance of conference.

"No Israel community had such a high-level conference." In the end Azerbaijani and Israeli national anthems were played.