[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 52 (Friday, May 1, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E743]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 SENSE OF CONGRESS ON 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOUNDING OF MODERN STATE OF 
                                 ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 28, 1998

  Mr. FARR of California. Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate the 50th year 
of statehood of a strong and trusted ally, the State of Israel. A young 
nation with a long and honorable history, Israel has been a symbol of 
hope and a land of opportunity for millions of Jews throughout the 
world. Surviving six wars, continuing terrorism, and severe economic 
boycotts, Israel's 600,000 citizens have shown the world what it means 
to be committed to one's homeland.
  Against all odds, Israel has established a dynamic, vibrant democracy 
that supports free elections free press and freedom of speech. A 
country of remarkable accomplishments, Israel has moved from a poor 
third-world country to a thriving state with unlimited economic 
prospects, Israel has molded fields of sand into successful farms, 
villages of historic destruction into brilliant cities with prosperous 
businesses and enterprising kibutzes, and barren desert lands into lush 
forests of green. Persecution endured has been turned into prosperity, 
isolation into idealism and hardship into heroism.
  With all if successes, the people of Israel have never forgotten who 
they are, the roots that intertwine every Israeli with every member of 
the global Jewish community. Israel has welcomed over 1,000,000 
refugees with open arms, providing work and learning opportunities, 
with the chance to become a vital part of the Israel experience.
  The United States' bond with Israel is stronger than ever, a 
friendship that has flourished and helped strengthen both of our 
nations. Working together for peace in the Middle East, we all yearn to 
see a day when children no longer need be afraid of war and terrorism 
and all families throughout the region feel safe and secure. We can now 
look forward to a time that this troubled area of the world toils 
towards tearing down age-old barriers instead of erecting new ones.
  The Israeli nation has become an inspiration for people the world 
over. I salute Israel on this joyous anniversary and pledge my support 
to it enduring legacy