Statement by the EAJC President regarding the exclusion of Russia from the Sobibor museum reconstruction project

Michael Mirilashvili, President of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress, expresses his bewilderment at the decision of the International Committee for the Reconstruction of the Sobibor Museum  to decline Russia's assistance and participation in this project. Mr. Mirilashvili maintains that political agendas must remain separate from preserving the memory of Holocaust victims and resistance heroes.

"It is the duty of each and every one of us to preserve the memory of the horrific events that took place in the concentration camps. Russia plays a significant role in honoring the memory of Holocaust victims; therefore, Russia’s participation in the project is of paramount importance. I fully share the official position of Israel, which supports the involvement of the Russian Federation in the reconstruction of the museum at the former Nazi death camp. Furthermore, the etymology of our people's name is rooted in the distant past, deriving from the name of one of the 12 tribes of Israel—the Tribe of Judah, which signifies 'gratitude to the Almighty.'  We must remember and honor those who have aided and continue to aid us, and we must remain capable of showing gratitude, including on the matter of the Sobibor camp," stated Mirilashvili.