Jerusalem Affairs Minister Yaakov Edery appealed to the European Union not to shun the ceremonies marking the reunification of the capital of Israel.

A German representative informed the government that the EU would boycott the festivities – a decision echoed by the United States, whose ambassador will also avoid the ceremonies. Germany holds the rotating presidency of the EU.

Minister Edery called on the EU to “reconsider the issue,” reminding the international body that Jerusalem is “holy to the three religions” (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) in addition to being the capital of the State of Israel.