Jerusalem’s Mayor Nir Barkat is currently conducting an official visit to the United States. During his visit in Washington he met this week (Apr. 1) with leading Congressmen, including House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, Rep. Peter Roskam (R-IL), Congresswoman Susan Brooks (R – IN) and Chairman of the United States House Committee on Foreign Affairs Congressman Edward Royc (R – CA).
Barkat presented Jerusalem’s development over the past years and reviewed the challenges currently facing the city. He discussed with the Congress members Jerusalem’s status in the international arena, and asked them to ensure that Jerusalem stay unified. On their part, the Congress members discussed the battle they are waging against the financial and academic boycotts on Israel and vowed to continue fighting the de-legitimization of Israel and Jerusalem.
Later on Barkat met with Israeli Ambassador to Washington, Ron Dermer, and discussed with him the challenges facing the Holy City.
AIPAC hosted the Mayor at a special dinner where he dined with senior commentators, lobbyists and Israel supporters in Washington. Barkat presented his vision for Jerusalem, emphasizing Jerusalem’s openness and accessibility to adherents of all religions, and that the city has experienced economic and physical growth. Barkat thanked AIPAC members for their uncompromising commitment to Jerusalem’s safety and unity.