Rivlin in Rahat: We must look to our common future

President Reuven Rivlin, who has been vocal during his term about the needs of Israel’s minority communities, visits the Negev city of Rahat, and tells residents that they “are the sons and daughters of this land, equal citizens, an inseparable part of the State of Israel.”

“We must not widen the abyss that threatens to divide us, but we must continue to build the bridge which brings us together,” he says. “We must build this bridge with faith and belief in one another. We can only build this bridge through cooperation, working to rebuild and create a base for mutual trust. Only out of a deep understanding that we share a common path, which we must travel together.”

“The State of Israel is obliged to relate to all its citizens with respect and equality. Just as it is obliged to carry out brave and significant steps to bridge the economic gaps – in resources, infrastructure and industry – between the Jewish public, and the Arab and Bedouin communities.”