[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 197 (Tuesday, December 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2337-E2338]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   WELCOMING THE PRIME MINISTER OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL, SHIMON PERES

                                 ______


                           HON. LOUIS STOKES

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 12, 1995

  Mr. STOKES. Mr. Speaker, today marks a historic occasion in the halls 
of Congress. I 

[[Page E2338]]
join my colleagues in welcoming to this Chamber the Prime Minister of 
the State of Israel, Shimon Peres. Mr. Peres journeyed to the United 
States to help us pay homage to our friend, the late Israeli Prime 
Minister Yitzhak Rabin, and to demonstrate the unity that exists 
between our two nations. As he addresses this joint session of 
Congress, we express our appreciation to Prime Minister Peres for his 
willingness to make this important journey on behalf of the people and 
State of Israel.
  The voice of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin has been silenced. Hatred 
took from our midst a strong leader who believed that the time had come 
to seek peace in the Middle East. Yet, we gather today with a renewed 
sense of commitment to pursue peace in that region. It is, indeed, the 
highest tribute we can pay to Yitzhak Rabin.
  Mr. Speaker, the man who addresses us as the new Prime Minister of 
Israel, Shimon Peres, has served his nation with distinction and honor. 
He brings to the post a record of distinguished service in office, and 
the highest level of commitment and integrity. Prime Minister Peres is 
a strong leader to whom we pledge our full support.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud of our Nation's longstanding and close 
relationship with the people of Israel. Our historic and mutually 
beneficial relationship is a testament to international cooperation. 
Indeed, it exists as a model for all peace-loving nations of the world. 
During this period of mourning for the slain hero, Yitzhak Rabin, we 
remain committed to that relationship.
  In the United States, we applaud President Clinton for his continued 
leadership in the quest for peace in the Middle East. He has 
demonstrated America's strong support for this effort, and he stands 
beside his brother, Shimon Peres, offering a strong arm of support. The 
leadership of these two individuals and their courage in the pursuit of 
peace should be encouraged by all Americans and Israelis.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the residents of the 11th Congressional 
District, I take pride in welcoming Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres 
to Washington. As he comes before us, we take this opportunity to again 
convey our condolences during this time of mourning for Yitzhak Rabin. 
We hope that Prime Minister Peres will carry back to the people of his 
nation our words of comfort and support. Our support is extended in the 
spirit of brotherhood and unity.

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