Coalition Chairman at the Knesset David Bitan attended the Israel Diamond Exchange yesterday (Tuesday) for a festive Hanukkah candle lighting ceremony in the IDE’s Trading Hall. The event was attended by IDE President Yoram Dvash, President of Israel Diamond Manufacturers Association (IsDMA) Kobi Korn, Chairman of the Israel Diamond Institute Group of Companies (IDI) Shmuel Schnitzer and IDE VP and Chairman of the Torah Culture Committee Jacob Haron Shelly. Managing Director of IDE, Eli Avidar, hosted the ceremony.
IDI Chairman Schnitzer wished the guests a happy Hanukkah and said: “I’ve been in the diamond business since 1972, and I remember a time when people treated our industry as an outsider to the Israeli economy. These days, we have an opportunity to change the stigma and the negative public opinion on our wonderful industry. Following our agreement with the Israeli Tax Authority, we have a rare window. I urge everyone to act accordingly so the diamond industry can begin 2017 as a welcome part of the Israeli economy”.
Coalition Chairman David Bitan said: “Today, Israel is an economic empire, but people tend to forget that diamantaires were a major part of our economy in the state’s early days. Diamonds were this country’s strongest export, and we must remember that. These aren’t easy times for the diamond industry, and the government’s job is to help. We will continue to aid you and work with you on taxation matters and bank credit”.
IDE VP and Chairman of the Torah Culture Committee Jacob Haron Shelly spoke about the significance of the Hanukkah candles. Bourse member Ronen Lazarob recited the blessings on the menorah, and Bitan and Schnitzer lit the candles.
Story courtesy of the IDE website
