[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 51 (Tuesday, April 16, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E472-E473]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR OF ISRAEL'S 65TH INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                     HON. LOUISE McINTOSH SLAUGHTER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 15, 2013

  Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, it is my esteemed honor and privilege to 
recognize and commemorate the 65th anniversary of the State of Israel's 
independence. Sixty-five years ago, America became the first nation to 
recognize Israel, an event that symbolizes the closeness of the 
relationship between our two countries and our two peoples.
  Since its founding in 1948, the Jewish state has faced many 
challenges, and America has been proud to be at Israel's side to meet 
these challenges. Our nation's ongoing commitment to Israel is 
unparalleled and I have been proud to spend my career in Congress 
working to promote the many economic, political, and cultural and 
security ties that bind our nations together.
  On this day, Israel has much to celebrate and be proud of. Their 
nation and people have been leaders in the development of 
groundbreaking and transformative technology affecting millions of 
people around the globe.

[[Page E473]]

Israelis have led the world in scientific research and advancements in 
medicine and have produced ten Nobel laureates in their short history. 
They have also built a world-class economy based in large part on their 
remarkable ability to educate their citizens and encourage freethinking 
and an entrepreneurial spirit
  While the Middle East continues to face challenges, our nation is 
comforted that Israel stands as a stable model for democracy in the 
region. The United States also stands ready and willing to help our 
strongest ally continue to meet the many challenges it faces in the 
region while working to promote peace and freedom in Israel and the 
Middle East. I look forward to the day when Israel and her neighbors 
can enjoy a prosperous and secure peace and will continue to do all 
that I can to make that a reality.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing all Israelis a 
happy independence day and affirming America's resolute commitment to 
the future success and stability of the State of Israel.

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