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Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's Message - Keren Hayesod |
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| 18/06/2003 |
It is my pleasure to bring you greetings from Jerusalem, the eternal capital of the Jewish people for the past 3000 years.
I welcome the impressive Keren Hayesod delegation from 22 countries, and appreciate your show of solidarity.
Since 1920, Keren Hayesod has been instrumental in raising funds for Zionist causes here in Israel.
Israel is not just an Israeli project, it is the project of all Jews. Your presence here strengthens Israel and the Jewish people.
For the past 3 years, Israel has been fighting a war imposed upon us by Palestinian terrorists, the purpose of their campaign is to kill Jews, mainly civilians and recently - to sabotage the political process.
The people of Israel have not, and will not be broken. Terrorism is not new here; we have been fighting Arab terrorism for the past 120 years.
Now we have a State where we can defend ourselves by ourselves, and we will preserve this right.
We value life, and are determined to win this struggle.
We will achieve security and peace in this region.
We are willing to make painful compromises, but only for genuine, durable peace, which will last for generations. But, we will in no way compromise our security, not now and not in the future, Israel is a peace-seeking nation. The Government of Israel accepted the steps set out in the Road Map with 14 reservations.
But moving forward requires a complete cessation of violence, terrorism and incitement.
The security of the Jewish people around the world depends very much on a strong Israel.
Without a strong Israel, you couldnt live the lives you are living as Jews in the Diaspora. We rely on each other, and share a mutual responsibility towards each other and towards our Jewish homeland. The partnership between Israel and the Diaspora must be an eternal bond.
Jewish-Zionist education is the key to our future.
It ensures Jewish continuity and guarantees future Aliyah. We need to make major efforts to expand Jewish education - both in the Diaspora and in Israel.
Aliyah is a major priority of my Government, and a critical factor in securing a Jewish State. You have supported our efforts to bring Olim from around the world.
You too should consider Aliyah.
Israel needs you here, we need you now!
I thank you for your support throughout the years - it has been essential, especially during these challenging times. I believe that if we stand together - united - we can win our struggle to bring life, peace, liberty and prosperity to the Jewish people in Israel as well as around the world.
Thank you
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