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World Jewish News
Netanyahu to Wring Pensions Out of CIS Countries
27.01.2009
On Tuesday in Tel Aviv, Benjamin Netanyahu met the representatives of "Hazit Ha-Kavod" - a movement for the decent future of Russian-speaking Israelis. The leader of the Likud promised to personally address the issue of pensions for former USSR citizens.
The meeting, held at the headquarters of the Likud in Tel Aviv, was organized with the help of the MP Ze'ev Elkin, who had joined the party at the end of last year. It was attended by deputy Yuli Edelstein and Netanyagu’s adviser on relations with the Russian-speaking community Dina Liebster. The Hazit Ha-Kavod movement, which includes more than a hundred non-governmental organizations, was represented by approximately 50 activists.
As well as at the meetings with the Head of the Kadima party Tzipi Livni, the two sides discussed the difficult situation of many Russian-speaking Israeli pensioners and those approaching the retirement age. Michael Alshansky, Head of the Association of repatriates from Belarus and former member of Rishon Le-Zion city council, said in the interview to the IzRus portal, that one of the tasks of Hazit Ha Kavod is to tell the leading Israeli politicians about the hard life led by pensioners from the USSR.
When approaching the participants, Netanyahu first cordially greeted all the veterans of World War II. Today the world marks the Day of Holocaust Remembrance, and the leader of the Likud considered it necessary to personally shake hands with every veteran in the room. Then he listened to the claims and requests of Hazit Ha Kavod representatives. Most of the time Netanyahu devoted to the issue of pensions. "Having retired, you have to smile and relax." He said. "Since you have already done your part, you deserve the protection of society, I promise that, having taken the position of Prime Minister, I will personally see to pensions from the FSU countries. When the leaders of Former Soviet republics will be addressed by the head of the country, and not just an official, business will be faster."
Chairman of the Hazit Ha-Kavod Movement Alexander Berman told the IzRus portal that he hopes to see the promises fulfilled. "There are many pensioners, and elections are held frequently. One who does not fulfill his promises cannot count on the votes of 150.000 pensioners, immigrants from the former Soviet Union."
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