A high-level European Jewish Union (EJU) delegation traveled to Montenegro last week to help re-establish Jewish life.

The delegation, led by EJU Vice President Vadim Rabinovich and EJU Chief Executive Officer Tomer Orni, met with the country’s political leadership and representatives of the recently established Jewish community in the tiny southeastern European country.

The visit was part of the ongoing outreach by EJU to enhance its ties with Jewish communities and national governments throughout Europe.

The delegation was received by Montenegrin President Filip Vujanovic and Speaker of the Parliament Ranko Krivokapic. Meetings were also held with the country’s Foreign Minister Nebojsa Kaluderovic, Deputy Prime Minister Dusko Markovic and the Mayors of the capital Podgorica, the royal city of Cetinje, and the coastal town of Kotor.

During their visit, EJU leaders pledged to support the establishment of a Synagogue and Jewish Cultural Center in Montenegro’s capital Podgorica, an initiative for which they received the support of the country’s top officials.

“EJU is committed to fostering Jewish life throughout Europe, said Tomer Orni, CEO of the European Jewish Union. “We were inspired by the newly established community in Montenegro and its achievements to date… Jews in Europe are part of one family. We should all work together and help each other.”

The visit also sent a message to the tiny Jewish community that as small as it might be, it is nonetheless valued.

“This visit has provided a major boost for our community,” Jasha Alfandari, President of the Montenegro Jewish Community, added in response to the visit.

“It has sent a message to the Montenegrin people and the Montenegrin government that our tiny Jewish Community – which is one of the smallest in the world – is not alone.”