[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 63 (Wednesday, April 18, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E496]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 18, 2018

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 70th 
Anniversary of the Independence of the State of Israel. I would also 
like to salute the Consulate General of Israel in New York for decades 
of work towards strengthening the bond between New York and Israel.
  For 70 years, Israel has served as a place of refuge for millions of 
Jewish people around the world. Despite facing tremendous adversity at 
every turn, Israel has become a vibrant and inclusive democracy.
  As the home of the largest Jewish population outside Tel Aviv, I know 
the ties between New York and Israel are particularly deep. Israel is 
one of our leading partners, and will continue to be in the decades to 
come.
  In the words of President John F. Kennedy: ``Israel can neither be 
broken by adversity nor demoralized by success. It carries the shield 
of democracy and it honors the sword of freedom.''
  I would also like to send my deepest gratitude to everyone that has 
tirelessly worked to build bridges between Israel and the United 
States. Thanks to their heroic efforts, the bonds between America and 
Israel are stronger than ever.

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