The Foundation was invited to join a delegation led by the Kiriaty Foundation Chair Judith Kiriaty and the Jewish community of Izmir President Sami Azar for the first official meeting with the newly elected city-wide Mayor Mr. Tunç Soyer and the Konak district Mayor Mr. Abdül Batur. This was held to present the Izmir Jewish heritage project and secure the city’s continuing interest and support. Both meetings proved productive and successful.
The visit was also an opportunity for the Foundation to understand first hand the progress that is being made with the Etz Hayim synagogue, which is one of its featured historic synagogue sites. Funding has been secured for urgent restoration works, and this is being conducted by a joint team of Israeli and Turkish heritage professionals.
Michael Mail was able to brief Daniel & Nina Libeskind on the project’s progress in London following his visit.