[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 79 (Wednesday, May 14, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E924-E925]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 14, 2008

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, sixty years ago today, as the world was 
still recovering from the horrors of the Second World War and the 
devastation of the Holocaust, the modern state of Israel was founded.
  In the sixty years since its founding, Israel has overcome numerous 
security threats while serving as a model democracy in the Middle East 
and a beacon of freedom in the region. Importantly, Israel has also 
been one of America's strongest and most steadfast allies.

[[Page E925]]

  In fact, the strong relationship between our two countries dates back 
to Israel's very founding.
  Within eleven minutes of Israel's declaration of Independence, 
President Harry Truman formally recognized the new nation and 
established America as Israel's first and closest friend.
  Today, the strong partnership between our two countries continues 
through commerce, educational links, familial ties, and joint efforts 
to stabilize and bring peace to the Middle East.
  So as we mark this important date and pay tribute to Israel's 
founding, let us also recommit to a continued friendship and 
partnership with Israel and a renewed dedication to securing a lasting 
peace in the Middle East.

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