Bethnahrin National Council celebrates 25 years of advocacy during jubilee in Paderborn, Germany

PADERBORN, Germany — The Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo d’Bethnahrin, MUB) commemorated its 25th anniversary with a jubilee celebration in Paderborn, Germany, attended by representatives from Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) political, religious, and social institutions.

The event began with a moment of silence to honor the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and identity of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people in Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia).

The keynote address, delivered on behalf of Council President Mr. Naim Michael Hadodo, traced the movement’s origins in Tur Abdin and its expansion across Europe and the homeland. He underscored the vital need for unity among those identifying as Chaldean, Syriac, and Assyrian to achieve meaningful representation on the global stage.

Additional speeches were given by notable figures, including Bishop Mar Julius Hanna Aydin, renowned composer Dr. Abraham Lahdo, and Co-Chair of the European Syriac Union (ESU) Fahmi Vergili, each highlighting the importance of collaboration and cultural pride.

The celebration included a vibrant cultural program featuring poetry recitations by George Shamoun, Habsuno Bahho, and Hanna Qaddoro, along with musical performances by Mousa Elias, Naaman Hanna, and Augin Tadaris.

The evening concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting by representatives of Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) communities and guests from other ethnic groups. The event fostered a festive atmosphere of joy and solidarity that lasted well into the night, marking a significant milestone in MUB’s enduring mission to champion the Syriac identity and heritage.