By DPA
Vienna - President Thomas Klestil gave an urgent warning on anti-Semitism on Monday at the opening of a symposium on the founder of Zionism, Theodor Herzl.
Addressing the seminar marking the 100th anniversary of Herzl's death, Klestil warned that words were again being used and circulated which had been notorious in the past. They originated in "the sprit of resentment, and promptly inflame resentment".
Klestil said present-day anti-Semitism was often disguised as anti-Zionism. He warned that the true test of any viable democracy was "respect for the others - neighbors, minorities, the ill, disabled", as well as as respect for political opponents.
"The 100th anniversary of the death of Theodor Herzl comes at a time when there can unfortunately be no question of a true peace among peoples," he said.
The bequest of Herzl was not only dedicated to the territory of a state, but also the task of reconciling enemies and strengthening social justice worldwide.
Klestil said Herzl had worked in practical terms for the realization of his idea. Austria could be proud that the idea of a Jewish state was born in Vienna.
"With this pride is mixed the painful certainty that Austrians had considerable part in the worst crime ever committed against the Jewish people, the Holocaust."
Vienna - President Thomas Klestil gave an urgent warning on anti-Semitism on Monday at the opening of a symposium on the founder of Zionism, Theodor Herzl.
Addressing the seminar marking the 100th anniversary of Herzl's death, Klestil warned that words were again being used and circulated which had been notorious in the past. They originated in "the sprit of resentment, and promptly inflame resentment".
Klestil said present-day anti-Semitism was often disguised as anti-Zionism. He warned that the true test of any viable democracy was "respect for the others - neighbors, minorities, the ill, disabled", as well as as respect for political opponents.
"The 100th anniversary of the death of Theodor Herzl comes at a time when there can unfortunately be no question of a true peace among peoples," he said.
The bequest of Herzl was not only dedicated to the territory of a state, but also the task of reconciling enemies and strengthening social justice worldwide.
Klestil said Herzl had worked in practical terms for the realization of his idea. Austria could be proud that the idea of a Jewish state was born in Vienna.
"With this pride is mixed the painful certainty that Austrians had considerable part in the worst crime ever committed against the Jewish people, the Holocaust."
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