BRUSSELS—“Many religious holidays across the world are celebrated at home. I believe that what makes Hanukkah so special is that it moves beyond the private space, sharing the light with everyone,” said Carlos Moedas, European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, during an event celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights he hosted in the Berlaymont, the headquarters of the EU’s executive body in Brussels.
The EuroChanukah celebration is organised every year by the European Jewish Community Centre (EJCC).
‘’This Chanukah, together we are celebrating the hope, warmth and positivity the light brings us, symbols that resonate with us all,’’ Moedas said.
In his address, the Commissioner also recalled his meetings in Brussels with late Israeli President Shimon Peres and more recently with current President Reuven Rivlin.
“The EU shares the same values that are symbolised by the Hanukkah lights,” Moedas said before lighting the fourth candle.
A big Menorah, the nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-day holiday, has been installed on Schuman Square, the heart of the EU quarter, in front of the buildings of the European Commission and the EU Council.