Italy - Italian Justice Minister strongly denounces anti-Semitism

Italy’s Justice Minister has strongly condemned anti-Semitism and said his government supports the implementation of tough laws against anti-Semitic acts.

He made the statement at an event organized in New York by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to present its "Giovanni Palatucci Courageous Leadership Award" to New York police’s deputy commissioner David Cohen, for his efforts helping the city fight terrorism.

The award is named after an Italian police chief who defied the Nazis and saved thousands of Jewish lives during the Holocaust.

"Anti-Semitism is a very dangerous ideology," said Italian Justice Minister Clemente Mastella.

"I believe that nobody should be attacked because of his nationality, because of his race or because of his religion. My government is prepared to fight against and prevent all forms of anti-Semitism in the country, and across the continent."

He also expressed his support for continuing Holocaust education.

"The people of Italy must never forget the memory of the Holocaust. The message has to be strong and the words have to be clear so that we can talk to the next generation."

Source: www.ejpress.org

Date: October 12, 2007

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