São Paulo – The president of the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC), diplomat Osmar Chohfi, was honored in a session at the Legislative Assembly of the State of São Paulo (ALESP) this Monday (7). The ceremony was held by the State Parliamentary Council of Foreign Communities, Roots, and Cultures (CONSCRE).
The Tribute to the Personalities of the Communities was awarded in a solemn session chaired by state representative chief police officer Olim in the Juscelino Kubitschek plenary room. Awards were given to individuals chosen by their communities. Chohfi was nominated by the Arab community.
“This honor expressively symbolizes what distinguishes Brazil from other nations. People came here in search of making their life dreams and aspirations come true, where they could develop their talents and abilities in search of a better life. And here they chose São Paulo, a land of opportunities for whose growth they contributed in the cultural, social, and economic fields,” said Chohfi.
In total, 12 communities participated in the tribute. Representatives of the German, Portuguese, Bolivian, Palestinian, Peruvian, Paraguayan, Armenian, Arab, Japanese, Jewish, Greek, and Chinese communities were at the ALESP. For Palestine, the tribute was given to Ualid Rabah, president of the Palestinian Arab Federation of Brazil (FEPAL).
Guests and São Paulo authorities also attended the session. “The state of São Paulo has the honor of having harmonious community integration with the different people who live here,” said Olim.
The current president of CONSCRE, Gabriel Sayegh, a representative of the Arab community, was at the plenary and spoke about the relevance of the council. “At the CONSCRE, we are all siblings in harmony and peaceful coexistence, showing diversity is one of the great riches of this country. Here we cultivate peace,” concluded Sayegh.
After the delivery of the awards, cultural and gastronomic presentations from different countries took place at the ALESP.
Translated by Elúsio Brasileiro
