Chief Rabbi of Moldova Rabbi Menachem Mendel Axelrod joined discussions on Jewish communal life, heritage preservation, education, and the future of Jewish life in the country.
A delegation from the German Bundestag Committee on Foreign Relations in the Field of Culture and Education visited the Jewish Community Center in Kishinev for a meeting with representatives of the Jewish community of the Republic of Moldova.
Among the participants was Chief Rabbi of Moldova and Chabad-Lubavitch emissary Rabbi Menachem Mendel Axelrod, who joined the discussions addressing the present needs and future development of Jewish communal life throughout the country.
The meeting focused on a wide range of issues, including Jewish heritage preservation, education, social welfare, Holocaust remembrance, and the challenges facing Jewish communities in Moldova.
Particular attention was given to Germany’s longstanding support for Jewish heritage preservation, including the work of the European Jewish Cemeteries Initiative (ESJF), which helps protect and maintain Jewish cemeteries throughout Moldova.
Participants also discussed memorial initiatives supported by the German Embassy in Kishinev, including the installation of memorial stones marking the 85th anniversary of the establishment of the Kishinev Ghetto.
The discussion highlighted the 2026 Holocaust remembrance program supported by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Moldova, as well as humanitarian initiatives carried out with the assistance of OlamAid and other international partners.
Special attention was devoted to the needs of elderly and vulnerable members of the Jewish community, particularly access to social assistance, medical care, and essential services.
Jewish education and youth engagement were also important subjects of the meeting. Participants discussed the challenges posed by migration, the importance of strengthening Jewish identity among younger generations, and the need to ensure the continuity of Jewish communal life.
The future Museum of Jewish History in Moldova was highlighted as an important institution for preserving and presenting the country’s rich Jewish heritage.
The discussion also addressed the situation of Jewish communities on the left bank of the Dniester River.
The participation of Chief Rabbi Axelrod reflected Chabad Moldova’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Jewish education, religious and communal life, and support for Jewish families throughout the country.
The meeting concluded with appreciation for Germany’s continued partnership in preserving Jewish heritage, supporting vulnerable community members, and helping ensure a vibrant Jewish future in Moldova.
