Nenadić and Alikadić with Finci: Jews had a historical role and influence on the Sarajevo Canton

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton Mario Nenadić and Minister of Culture and Sports Kenan Alikadić received today the President of the Jewish Community of BiH Jakob Finci on the occasion of the beginning of the Jewish holiday “Pesach”. The Prime Minister and the Minister congratulated all Jews on their greatest Jewish holiday, Pesach, with the wish that, as in all these years through the long history of coexistence in the Canton of Sarajevo, they celebrate it with their families, because it is, above all, a family holiday, but also in unity and harmony with all their fellow citizens in the Canton of Sarajevo.

President Finci informed the representatives of the Government that 660 Jews live in Sarajevo, of which 200 are elderly. He informed them how the Jewish Community is organized in taking care of its members, and that they have secured 24 volunteers for the elderly and infirm, as well as regular meals.

The representatives of the Government informed President Finci about the situation in the Canton of Sarajevo regarding the pandemic caused by the coronavirus and the measures being taken. It was emphasized that the Government of the Canton of Sarajevo has secured the necessary medical and sanitary equipment and is implementing measures, together with federal authorities.

The meeting participants also discussed the historical role of Jews who, since their arrival in 1575, have had a strong influence on the life of the city of Sarajevo and the Canton.

President Finci announced that there will be no traditional gatherings, as they are guided by all orders of civil and crisis headquarters.

On this occasion, Prime Minister Nenadić thanked for the help that this community provided to the citizens of Sarajevo in the period from 1992 to 1995, and in that regard, he placed the capacities of the Sarajevo Canton at the disposal of the Jewish Community so that all its members, as well as our citizens, can overcome the current crisis as best as possible.