Speech of Yona Metzger, Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi of Israel

Highly respected Nursultan Nazarbayev, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan,

Thank you for an invitation. I feel myself at home in your country. It is for the forth time I visit Kazakhstan in such a high quality, I was a participant of the First Congress.

However, dear Mr. President, Jews say: "Be blessed that, who says and does". God blesses a man, who says and fulfils promise. And you, Mr. President, gave us various promises, which you have fulfilled. I remember you promised at the First Congress to build a palace and assemble all religion leaders here.

And we are here in this beautiful, tremendous, super palace, which as this remarkable city has grown for the last two years. Yesterday I didn't recognize Astana. The city became beautiful and wonderful so much. We know that God blesses those, who help Him to construct this world. And you, constructing your wonderful capital, help God with honor and dignity.

I have already said, Mr. President, that this Congress has an enormous meaning, as I see here the exchange of opinions. Let's continue our liability in order each of us can make it in the best way. And in this process our religion should deepen too.
Let me repeat again, that religion should never be used as a weapon or confrontation. I'm grateful, that this Congress proposes high goals of the forum to use the wisdom of all people.

And at last, not less important, let me pray for your health, welfare and success and let your religion blesses you. Thank you for attention.