“Please accept my warmest congratulations on your election. For 60 years now the Central Council of Jews in Germany has been the main representative body of the Jewish communities here. It is an outstanding institution, which plays an indispensable part in our country’s public life. Over the past decades the Central Council has made invaluable contributions to integration, education and good interfaith relations. For many years, Mr Grauman, you have had an important hand in taking this work forward. For the tasks that lie ahead I wish you and the new Presidium every success. I very much look forward to my first meeting with you in your new capacity.”

“I would like to thank Charlotte Knobloch for the marvellous job she has done over the past few years. She has worked tirelessly for the revival of Jewish life in Germany. Her active commitment to the integration and education of young people in Germany, whatever their background, and to interfaith dialogue have earned her admiration and respect.”