Top honour for Jewish giants
Speaking to the recipients, President Isaac Herzog said the past year had proved that "Jewish communities worldwide and the State of Israel share a common destiny".
Sitting around the dinner table, Mark Leibler said he did not expect to receive a call from the President of Israel.
Leibler and fellow communal stalwart Sir Frank Lowy were this week announced as recipients of Israel’s prestigious Presidential Medal of Honour. An initiative of the late Shimon Peres, it is awarded “to those who through their talents, service, or any other means, have made an outstanding contribution to the State of Israel or to humanity”.
Saying he was “astonished and deeply moved”, Leibler said, “Working in support of Israel, the Australian Jewish community, and the relationship between the two nations has been a passion and a privilege.”
He also paid tribute to Australian Jewry, “whose enduring commitment and contribution to Israel has always belied our relatively small numbers” and said he was “thrilled to be recognised alongside my friend Frank Lowy”.
Sir Frank said he was “very proud” to receive the honour.
“I’m not sure I deserve it, but I certainly value it greatly,” he said. “Many good people do good things but they don’t receive the honours. So I think we should remember that.”
Sir Frank said life in Israel “is not easy these days, but I’m very pleased to be here, proud to be here and take part in the life of Israel at this difficult time”.
The two Australians joined six other international Jewish leaders in being recognised.
Speaking to the recipients, President Isaac Herzog said the past year had proved that “Jewish communities worldwide and the State of Israel share a common destiny”.
“Your work and dedication embody this great bond, and the Jewish people and the State of Israel will remain deeply grateful for all that you have done and continue to do,” he said.
Congratulating Lowy and Leibler, the Israeli embassy said, “Your unwavering commitment to advancing the wellbeing of Israel and the Jewish people worldwide, especially in these challenging times, is truly commendable.”
UIA Australia president Esther Frenkiel said, “It is exceptionally gratifying that two stalwart leaders within the Keren Hayesod – UIA family have been given this incredible honour.
“The award is wonderful recognition for their lifetime of dedication on behalf of the Australian Jewish community, The State of Israel and global Jewry. This also reinforces the standing of Keren Hayesod-UIA.”
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