[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 6]
[Senate]
[Page 8520]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF ISRAEL

  Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President. This month we are celebrating one of the 
greatest achievements of the 20th century--the founding of the modern 
State of Israel.
  The story of Israel is unique. A people forced into exile, who 
endured centuries of persecution, rebuilt their ancient homeland. They 
forged a nation where they could practice their ancient faith and 
traditions. They created an open and free democratic society. And 
always, they offer a home to Jewish immigrants from around the world.
  The founding of Israel followed the most incomprehensible and evil 
event of the 20th century, when the Nazis--with the complicity of so 
many others--sought to exterminate a people. The survivors of the 
Holocaust helped to build modern Israel. Never again will the Jewish 
people be dependent on anyone else for their security.
  At first Israelis envisioned an agrarian society. But today, Israel 
is a center for technology and science. American scientists and 
engineers are working as partners with Israelis to develop the 
innovations of the future. Our great Federal Laboratories, like the 
National Institutes of Health, are now working with Israeli scientists 
on a cure for cancer and other deadly diseases. Together America and 
Israel are working toward a future that is safer, stronger, and 
smarter.
  America's relationship with Israel is also unique. We share common 
goals, values, and interests. We stand by each other in good times and 
bad.
  Israel has had to endure many wars and live in constant readiness for 
battle. They live with the constant threat of terrorism. Yet the people 
of Israel are strong and resolute. They are committed to building a 
safer and more peaceful future.
  On this anniversary, all friends of Israel should recommit ourselves 
to ensuring the survivability and viability of the State of Israel, now 
and forever. Our friendship is based on shared values, shared 
interests, and strategic necessity. My support for Israel is unabashed 
and unwavering. I will continue to be a voice for Israel and a vote for 
Israel in the United States Senate.
  Mr. President, I salute the people of Israel as they celebrate 60 
years of independence, and I look forward to a future of peace, 
prosperity, and friendship.

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