Sunday, April 18, 2010

Clinton congratulates Israel on Independence day: The US will help shoulder your burdens

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton sent Israel an upbeat congratulations video-note - replete with an exclamation point - on the occasion of its 62nd year of Independence.

"Congratulations Israel on 62 years of independence! This is an opportunity to celebrate all that Israel has accomplished and to reaffirm the bonds that unite our two nations," she said.

Clinton said she and President Barack Obama share "a deep personal commitment to Israel. .... Our nation will not waver in protecting Israel's security and promoting Israel's future."

"That is why pursuing peace and recognized borders for Israel is one of our top priorities," she continued. "We believe it is possible – indeed necessary – to achieve a comprehensive peace in the Middle East that provides Israelis, Palestinians, and all the people of the region security, prosperity, and the opportunity to live up to their full God-given potential."