[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 65 (Monday, April 23, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E509]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





  COMMEMORATING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE STATE OF 
                                 ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 23, 2018

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 
70th anniversary of the founding of the state of Israel.
  Today, Israel is home to over 8 million people--all with unique 
histories that stretch from around the world. The nation has become 
fertile ground for business, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with 
companies leading the way in cutting edge technologies. Israel has also 
worked to strengthen their global outreach and assistance through the 
work of organizations such as MASHAV--sharing expert insight and 
technical assistance with countries in the developing world, and 
helping to lift people out of poverty.
  Founded as a Jewish state in 1948 following the aftermath of the 
horrific genocide that was the Holocaust, Israel's existence is a 
tribute to perseverance. From the beginning, many of Israel's neighbors 
rejected their right to exist--some even taking up arms and attacking 
the young nation. I have been, and will continue to be, an ardent 
supporter of Israel, and have advocated for robust U.S. engagement to 
help ensure their safety and encourage peace in the region.
  I am proud to rise in support of Israel on this exciting anniversary, 
and to celebrate the deep ties that have been forged between it and the 
United States--including in the Ninth District of Washington state. I 
look forward to the future.

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