Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion addressed members of the diplomatic corps and guests at the Jerusalem Post Diplomatic Conference held at the Friends of Zion Museum, outlining the city’s vision for development centered on inclusivity and opportunity. He emphasized Jerusalem’s dual identity as both an ancient city and a city looking toward the future.

Lion underscored that the city’s growth efforts are aimed at benefiting all residents, regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds. “We are building and developing for everyone, Jews and Arabs, in the east of the city and the west of the city,” he said. He added that children in Jerusalem—whether Arab or Jewish, Christian or Muslim, religious or secular—currently have more opportunities than ever before, citing investments in infrastructure, education, and programs targeting youth.

The mayor described Jerusalem as a city of unity despite the diverse and sometimes divergent views held by its inhabitants. He noted that this unity was particularly evident following the events of October 7, when Israelis came together in response to a crisis. “In our darkest hour, we found strength in unity. And now, we must use that strength to build,” he said.

Lion called on the attending diplomats to contribute to shaping the capital’s future by promoting investment, tourism, and partnerships involving municipalities, academic institutions, businesses, and communities. He highlighted Jerusalem’s unique status as a city sacred to many faiths and peoples, advocating for cooperation over division and growth over destruction.

“This is the city we are building; a city rooted in history, truly a home for everyone,” he concluded. The mayor’s remarks reflected a vision of Jerusalem as a shared space committed to peace and development for all its residents.