Israel Still Hopes for Migration of Russian Jews, Sharett Says

“We will not lose hope to unite with the remnants of Russian Jewry,” Israel Foreign Minister Moshe Sharett last night told 10,000 Montreal Jews who braved a heavy rain to attend a mass rally welcoming him to Canada.

In a lengthy address, Mr. Sharett outlined the growth and development of the Jewish State, with its attendant difficulties and hardships. He also extended an invitation to Canadian Government leaders to visit Israel, declaring that “for the first time in 2,000 years we are privileged to play host to others.” He was introduced to the audience by Samuel Bronfman, chairman of the National Conference for Israel and Jewish Rehabilitation, and Edward Gelber, chairman of the United Zionist Council.

Earlier, Mr. Sharett told a press conference that Israel observes and protects the sanctity and inviolability of the Holy Places in Jerusalem. He added that the internationalization of Jerusalem is “impracticable” and against the democratic wishes of the city’s population. The Foreign Minister also stated that his government would not consider any border revisions, and that the solution for the Arab refugees lies in their permanent settlement in the Arab lands. He stressed the fact that the Jews were not responsible for the plight of the Arab refugees.

Discussing his current tour of Canadian and American cities, Mr. Sharett said that his mission was to obtain help and guidance from older and better established democracies, as well as to stimulate financial assistance for Israel from the Jewish people. He expressed gratitude for the assistance given Israel at various crucial times by Canadian statesmen.

At a meeting of the national executive of the Conference for Israel and Jewish Rehabilitation, he underlined that unless Israel solves its economic problems its other problems cannot be settled. “The chief battle is economic, with the prize productivity, and the weapons capital.” Mr. Sharett said.