National Assembly Chair Kiselova Joins Hanukkah Celebration at Sofia Synagogue, Calls for Unity and Peace

Kaloyan Kirilov

National Assembly Chair Nataliya Kiselova at the Central Sofia Synagogue, December 30, 2024 (BTA Photo/Nikola Uzunov)

Sofia,

31.12.2024 10:37

(BTA)

Respect, love for others, tolerance, acceptance, forgiveness, and absolution are important not only during these festive days, said Chair of the National Assembly Nataliya Kiselova in her greeting to the Jewish community in Bulgaria on the occasion of Hanukkah, Parliament's press service said here on Tuesday. The National Assembly Chair lit the second candle of the menorah during the ceremony at the Central Sofia Synagogue.

"Let us set an example for future generations, demonstrating that light always prevails over darkness, that doing good is worthwhile, and that we should focus on building rather than destroying," Kiselova said. "In our prayers, we share the sorrow for the over one hundred hostages who, today, remain in darkness, deprived of both candlelight and daylight," she added.

Kiselova said that just a few days ago, the Christian world celebrated Christmas - a holiday where families come together, express their love, and enjoy the joy of being united, with birth symbolizing hope for a new, better future. She noted that the similarities between the two holidays - Christmas for Christians and Hanukkah for Jews - demonstrate that we share common values, hopes, and aspirations for our children to live in a more peaceful, comfortable, and just world.

"Today, as we stand united by the miracle and show our love, we pray for peace, hope, and a better future for everyone - for families, loved ones, and those who are far away or still in need," Kiselova said. She added that in the years ahead, the two peoples will continue to share their strong bond, united by history, friendship, understanding, and a common future.

Vice President Iliana Iotova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nevyana Miteva, members of Parliament, and representatives of institutions and the diplomatic corps also attended the ceremony.

/DS/