[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 160 (2014), Part 5]
[House]
[Page 6909]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING THE GREAT DEMOCRATIC JEWISH STATE OF ISRAEL

  (Mr. VARGAS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. VARGAS. Mr. Speaker, I also rise today to recognize the great 
democratic Jewish State of Israel, one of our strongest partners for 
peace and stability, for its 66 years of independence.
  Since its founding on May 14, 1948, Israel has been a beacon of 
democracy and prosperity and America's stalwart ally in the often 
tumultuous Middle East.
  As the historic home of the Jewish people, Israel has stood for hope 
in the face of persecution, freedom from oppression, and opportunity 
for its diverse population.
  We were the first nation to recognize Israel's independence, and I 
look forward to working with my colleagues to continue building 
stronger bonds between the United States and Israel.
  I am fully committed to our special relationship, which is based upon 
our shared values and common interests. Mr. Speaker, on this joyous 
day, I am honored to congratulate Israel on its 66th Independence Day.

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