[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 62 (Tuesday, April 17, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E482]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN RECOGNITION OF THE 70TH INDEPENDENCE DAY OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL

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                           HON. CHRIS COLLINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 17, 2018

  Mr. COLLINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
70th Anniversary of the founding of the Jewish state of Israel. In May 
of 1948, after centuries of foreign rule, persecution, and conflict, 
David Ben-Gurion declared the establishment of the state of Israel, 
which President Harry S. Truman also recognized on the same day.
  While the state of Israel has faced much conflict since its founding, 
and violence between Israelis and Palestinians is common, the 
resilience and strength of the state and its people is astounding. The 
founding is a direct result of the hard work and perseverance of the 
Jewish people, who fought for their rights in the face of persecution. 
This passion and determination is why we are here today, celebrating 
the 70th Anniversary of the state of Israel.
  The people of Israel plan to celebrate the anniversary with a ``70 
hours of Israeli Celebrations'' ceremony, bringing together both the 
citizens of Israel as well as Jewish people all around the world. The 
theme of this celebration is ``Heritage of Innovation'', which 
highlights the success of the state at spearheading new technology in 
the fields of medicine and agriculture. I congratulate Israel on its 
70th Independence Day, and wish them many more years of prosperity.

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