*Administration of Barack H. Obama, 2010 *

**Statement on the 62d Anniversary of the State of Israel **

*April 19, 2010 *

On the 62d anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, I join the American people in congratulating the Government and people of Israel on this celebration of their independence. Minutes after David Ben-Gurion declared Israel's independence, realizing the dream of a state for the Jewish people in their historic homeland, the United States became the first country to recognize Israel. To this day, we continue to share a strong, unbreakable bond of friendship between our two nations, anchored by the United States enduring commitment to Israel's security. Israel remains our important partner and key strategic ally in the Middle East, and I am confident that our special relationship will only be strengthened in the months and years to come. I look forward to continuing our efforts with Israel to achieve comprehensive peace and security in the region, including a two-state solution, and to working together to counter the forces that threaten Israel, the United States, and the world.

On this day, we once again honor the extraordinary achievements of the people of Israel and their deep and abiding friendship with the American people. I offer my best wishes to President Peres, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the people of Israel as they celebrate this happy occasion.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Israel, State of, 62d anniversary of establishment*.*

*Names:* Netanyahu, Benjamin; Peres, Shimon*.*

*Subjects:* Israel : President; Israel : Prime Minister; Israel : Relations with U.S.; Israel : State of Israel, 62d anniversary of establishment; Middle East : Peace and democracy efforts; Terrorism : Global threat.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201000280.