The panel of experts appointed to investigate Swiss policy during the Second World War began its work today, but its chairman, Prof. Jean-Francois Berger doubts that it can complete its work in the allotted five years. Berger made these remarks at a round table discussion organized by the Jewish Agency on the subject of Jewish property restoration in Europe. After the discussion, the heads of the Jewish agency awarded "Globes" journalist Itamar Levin a certificate of commendation and a prize for his part in uncovering the scandal of Jewish property looted in the Holocaust.
Berger said: "From our standpoint, we are dealing in a lesson, and a moral messages to the international community. This is an opportunity for my country to discover its true nature, the power to move forward, and the trust in the future that we all need. As far as Swiss deposits are concerned, I am determined to clarify the problem, and we will do our best to find out as much as possible".
Jewish Agency Chairman Avraham Burg said that Israel and the Jewish people have no argument with the Swiss people. He stressed that the time will come for the voluntary organizations to face the truth about themselves, since they were well informed about the extermination camps.
Burg noted that Jews have economic claims against 19 countries, and that no European country has a clean slate. "The Allies were hypocritical. There are suspicions that stolen Jewish moneys were deposited in banks and used to finance the reconstruction of Europe. If this is true, then the wronged cry out for justice".