As delivered by Bjørn Berge, Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe

Rabbi of Strasbourg, dear Mendel,

Chair of the Ministers’ Deputies of the Council of Europe, dear Andrius,

Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Council of Europe was established 75 years ago in the wake of the Second World War.

It was built on the promise of “never again”.

Never again to fascism and totalitarianism –

To the horror of war –

And to the terrible crimes that result from it –

Including the gravest of all – the holocaust – which shook this continent to its core.

We must always remember the Shoah, learn from it, and prevent the hatred and prejudice that enabled it.

So, I am grateful to have the opportunity to speak here today –

And to be included in this event to mark the Day of Salvation and Liberation –

The 26^th day of Iyar.

I understand the commemoration of this Day is relatively new in the Jewish calendar –

And while of course it calls to mind the murder of
six million Jewish people –

It also contains a message of hope.

German Zakharyaev, who did so much to have this Day recognised, has spoken about it as an opportunity for Jewish communities to recognise those who liberated Europe –

And to “remember the day when the Jews became free peoples”.

Jewish thought has always understood the importance of positivity, giving thanks, and celebrating life.

That is doubly poignant on this Day of Salvation and Liberation, which also coincides with the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

We will no doubt see images of some of the remaining soldiers visiting the beaches of Normandy.

We give thanks to them for their sacrifices, service and commitment to a just future for our continent –

And we give thanks also for this opportunity to be together –

To remember what has been lost –

And to redouble our commitment to a future in which every individual can in live in peace, security and dignity.

Thank you for your attention.