NEW YORK – World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder hosted Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz at the Neue Galerie in Manhattan on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
“Since entering office, Chancellor Kurz has demonstrated immense support for the Jewish community in Austria, a sincere commitment to combating the dangerous manifestations of antisemitism rising across Europe, and has proven to be a true friend of Israel,” Lauder said.
“With Austria holding the Presidency of European Council, Chancellor Kurz has also given invaluable support to the World Jewish Congress as we work to develop a lasting and effective strategy to fight antisemitism and ensure the well-being and security of all of our communities,” Lauder added. “His assistance and dedication are unprecedented, and we look forward to continuing to work together for the benefit of European Jewry. The task at hand is not simple, and we sincerely hope that these critical efforts will pay off.”
In his remarks, Chancellor Kurz said: “Because of our history, we have a special responsibility to Jews and the Jewish community in Austria, and to Israel. It is our duty to fight against all forms of antisemitism, in Austria and in EU. We will use the presidency of the [European] council this year to support all of those who would also like to join in this fight.”
“We stand ready to support the Jewish community,” Kurz added. “Austria would not be the same without the Austrian Jewish community.”
