[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 65 (Wednesday, April 23, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E709]
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. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 22, 2008

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 322 
recognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern State of 
Israel and reaffirming the bonds of close friendship and cooperation 
between the United States and Israel.
  Today marks the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern State 
of Israel. For the past six decades the United States and Israel have 
forged a special relationship based on our shared history of overcoming 
oppression, tyranny and hatred. This bond has strengthened over time 
through our common interest in peace, prosperity, and democracy.
  As we commemorate this anniversary, we must also recognize the 
challenges that face Israel. Security and prosperity will only be 
reached when a resolution to the conflict between the Palestinian and 
Israeli peoples is achieved.
  It is critical that we engage both Israel and the Palestinian 
leadership to find a way forward. It is also critical that we support 
initiatives that create greater dialogue, cooperation and economic 
development between Israelis and Palestinians. I have been a strong 
supporter of Seeds of Peace, which has a camp located in my district, 
which brings Arab and Israeli youth together to dispel stereotypes and 
build lasting trust within the regional leaders of tomorrow. I have 
also been a strong supporter of the Middle East Regional Cooperation 
program and other programs that create people-to-people reconciliation 
and coexistence in the Middle East.
  Israel is friend and ally of the United States and it is my honor to 
recognize the 60th anniversary of its founding. True support for Israel 
lies in standing with our friend as its civilians face down 
indiscriminate rocket attacks and in pushing for a permanent peace that 
provides security and dignity to both Israelis and Palestinians.
  On this special occasion it is important to commemorate the past, but 
also to look toward the future. As our two Nations enter our seventh 
decade as allies, we must continue to actively pursue our common dream 
of peace, freedom and security--a dream that I believe is shared by all 
peoples of the world.
  Mr. Speaker, I reiterate my firm support of H. Con. Res. 322.




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