STATEMENT BY GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST REGARDING THE 60TH INDEPENDENCE DAY OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL
May 9, 2008
Contact:
GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394
AVENTURA – Governor Charlie Crist today will join Ofer Bavly, Consul General of Israel, at a concert commemorating the 60th Independence Day of the State of Israel at Turnberry Jewish Center in Aventura. Carlos Alvarez, Miami-Dade County Mayor, and Laurence A. Herrup, president of Turnberry Jewish Center will also attend the concert.
Governor Crist released the following statement on the 60th Independence Day of the State of Israel:
“Florida is tied to Israel by trade, education and especially our people. Nearly 750,000 men and women of Jewish faith live and work in Florida, and we are blessed by their contributions to our state. The state of Israel has endured because of the faith of her people, who value independence and have the courage to stand strong for their beliefs.
Throughout its history, Florida has enjoyed a close and dynamic relationship with Israel. Israel is one of Florida’s top trading partners, with more than $213 million in trade each year, and the fourth largest market in the United States for Israeli products. As a commitment to reaffirm Florida’s proud friendship with Israel, I led our first trade mission to Israel nearly one year ago. During my visit, I was inspired by the beauty of both Israel’s landscape and Israel’s people, as well as its historic and religious significance. It was truly an honor to be welcomed by leaders such as Prime Minister Olmert, Foreign Minister Livni, Minister Netanyahu and President Peres.
Just one week after returning from Israel, I signed legislation that further strengthened Florida’s commitment to the people of Israel. The Protecting Florida’s Investments Act made Florida the first state government to divest funds from companies doing business with the government of Iran. Florida stepped to the forefront to emphasize our support for Israel and her pursuit of a lasting peace.
I join friends of Israel throughout Florida, our nation and the world to reflect on her past six decades, celebrate her future and ask God’s continued blessing on both Florida and Israel.
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