[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 65 (Wednesday, April 23, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E697]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE MODERN STATE OF 
                                 ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 22, 2008

  Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of 
the State of Israel and the greater Jewish community on the 60th 
anniversary of their independence.
  The United States supported the establishment of the Jewish State in 
1948, and our two countries have been the closest of friends and strong 
allies ever since.
  Our friendship is rooted in some deeply shared beliefs. We believe in 
freedom of religion, in freedom of the press, and in freedom of speech. 
We believe in free and fair elections. And we believe that extremism 
and terrorism have no place in the global community.
  Since its independence, Israel has endured unstable and troubling 
conditions in the Middle East. They have been subject to violence and 
unwarranted attacks. They have been asked to compromise their borders. 
They have had missile strikes threatening the lives of innocent 
citizens on an almost daily basis. Yet, the Israeli people remain 
united and strong--continuing to stand up for their beliefs and for 
their country.
  Israel is a modern success story. It is the only democracy in the 
Middle East. It is the only Middle Eastern country where Arabs have the 
right to vote for their elected officials and their political leaders. 
And, it is one of the only Middle Eastern nations without oil wealth 
that has transformed itself from an agrarian-based economy to a high 
tech economic powerhouse.
  Today, as Israel turns 60, it is important to remember what she 
stands for.
  I believe Israel, while small in geographic size, is one of the 
largest symbols of humankind's continued faith in God.
  I believe her enduring spirit to survive inspires.
  And, I believe in her unwavering dedication to freedom and democracy.
  I am proud to be a friend of Israel's and I believe we must continue 
to stand with her. And today, I want to join my colleagues in wishing 
Israel a hearty Mazel Tov on 60 years of Independence.

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