Celebrating the Jewish New Year in Cyprus

It was a great honour for the Jewish Community of Cyprus to welcome the new United States Ambassador to Cyprus, His Excellency John Breslow, together with his wife, Sonia, as hundreds of community members gathered to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

Chief Rabbi of Cyprus, Rabbi Arie Zeev Raskin, together with his wife, Rebbetzen Shaindel Raskin, warmly welcomed Ambassador Breslow and his family to this special celebration.

The visit came at a particularly meaningful moment, just days after Ambassador Breslow formally presented his credentials to His Excellency President Nikos Christodoulides on 9 September, officially beginning his service as the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Cyprus.

Ambassador Breslow brings with him a long record of public service, business leadership and philanthropy. Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, he served as Nebraska State Auditor from 1991 to 1999 and later built a successful career in business and charitable work. He also served as a minority owner of the Arizona Coyotes and has supported major philanthropic initiatives in education and animal welfare.

His appointment is also historic, as he is the first non-career, politically appointed United States Ambassador to Cyprus. During his confirmation hearing, he highlighted the importance of the relationship between the United States and Cyprus and described Cyprus as a vital partner for American interests in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Rosh Hashanah is a time of renewal, hope and looking towards a better year ahead. Welcoming Ambassador Breslow and his family into our community was a beautiful reflection of the friendship and mutual respect that connect our communities and our countries.

May the New Year bring peace, security, prosperity and understanding, and may the bonds between Cyprus, the United States and the Jewish community continue to grow stronger.

Shana Tova U’Metukah!

Jewish Community of Cyprus