In a letter, President of the World Jewish Congress Ronald S. Lauder thanked Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for the grants made available to the Budapest Charitable Hospital of the Federation of Hungarian Jewish Communities (Mazsihisz), the help provided by the government for the refurbishment of the hospital, and the fact that the government, in cooperation, among others, with Hungarian Jewish communities, is waging a brave fight at the time of the coronavirus epidemic.

“Since the beginning of the crisis, I have received news from all over the world about how Jewish communities and national governments are combining forces in the fight against the deadly Covid-19 virus. In this regard, the situation is not different in Hungary either; Mr Heisler, who represents Hungarian Jewish communities, has informed me about the brave fight you are waging in your country,” Mr Lauder wrote, according to the information of Bertalan Havasi, the Prime Minister’s press chief, adding that “I would like to thank you, Prime Minister, for having coordinated these efforts. I pray for this health care crisis to come to an end as soon as possible.”

The President of the WJC highlighted that the Budapest Jewish hospital is a unique and special institution both for their community and for Jews around the world. “As the institution is the region’s only Jewish hospital, its existence as well as the well-being of staff members and patients are especially important for us. Therefore, together with Mr Heisler, I would like to thank you especially for the support provided for the elderly, including several Holocaust survivors,” he pointed out.

In his message, Mr Lauder lays down he is aware that the institution is undergoing a refurbishment project implemented from significant government funding. “Also during this period filled with challenges, we are asking you Prime Minister to continue to support the Jewish hospital. I can reassure you that the leaders and staff members of Mazsihisz fully observe all government guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety and to save as many lives as possible. Prime Minister, may you continue to take successful action in the fight against the virus,” the President of the World Jewish Congress wrote in conclusion.

(Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister/MTI)