[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 7]
[House]
[Page 9133]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING ISRAEL'S 60TH ANNIVERSARY

  (Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute.)
  Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I too rise to recognize the 60th 
anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel, and to reaffirm 
the steadfast friendship between our two strong democratic nations.
  Sixty years ago today, on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel declared 
sovereignty and independence as a homeland for the Jewish people. With 
little resources and seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Israel has 
become a thriving and prosperous democracy, and has made worldwide 
contributions in technology, medicine, agriculture and environmental 
innovation.
  When we speak about Israel, too often we focus on Israel's troubles 
and not on her beauty and her spirit. But what I want to focus on today 
is her resolve. Since independence, Israel has continually overcome 
every conceivable roadblock. She has beaten back hostile neighbors 
during war, and now endures terrible emotional and economic hardship 
from terrorist cowards who perpetrate hideous violence against innocent 
victims.
  As a critical partner in the fight against terror, and as the only 
democracy in the region, Israel's strength and security is paramount. 
Therefore, I encourage this House to continue to pass bipartisan bills 
in support of Israel and her ability to protect herself from 
antagonistic neighbors.
  The blossoming of a nation that grew from desert sand into a thriving 
example of democracy, economic progress and cultural diversity is a 
magnificent achievement for this strong and vibrant country.
  I congratulate Israel on all she has achieved in just 60 years, and I 
look forward to a bright future for this extraordinary nation.

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