[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 60 (Thursday, April 23, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E571]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE 67TH ANNIVERSARY OF ISRAEL'S INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 23, 2015

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 67th 
anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel and to 
reaffirm the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the United 
States and Israel.
  Israel was created in 1948; it took President Truman only 11 minutes 
to recognize the new Jewish State.
  Since then, Israel has come to exist as the only true democracy in 
the Middle East.
  Israel and the United States have many of the same foundations of 
government: freedom of religion, free speech, basic human rights, the 
rule of law and being a nation of immigration and diversity.
  In addition, it is a home to many religious sites which are sacred to 
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam and attracts multitudes of visitors 
every year.
  Israel provided a refuge to Jews who survived the horrors of the 
Holocaust and the evils committed by the Nazis which were unprecedented 
in human history.
  The people of Israel have established a unique, pluralistic democracy 
which includes the freedoms cherished by the people of the United 
States, including freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of 
association, freedom of the press, and government by the consent of the 
governed.
  Israel continues to serve as an example of democratic values by 
regularly holding free and fair elections, promoting the free exchange 
of ideas, and vigorously exercising in its Parliament, the Knesset, a 
democratic government that is fully representative of its citizens.
  I applaud the Government of Israel for successfully working with the 
neighboring Governments of Egypt and Jordan to establish peaceful, 
bilateral relations.
  I have had the privilege of visiting Israel many times, and observing 
firsthand her great achievements in the areas of medical research, 
technology, business, and the arts.
  Mr. Speaker, the 67th anniversary of the founding of the modern State 
of Israel is an occasion for us to reflect and reaffirm the bonds of 
friendship and cooperation between the United States and Israel.
  The United States and Israel enjoy a strategic partnership based on 
shared mutual democratic values, friendship, and respect.
  The people of the United States share affinity with the people of 
Israel and view Israel as a strong and trusted ally.
  I hope this friendship continues to grow and blossom for decades to 
come.

                          ____________________