Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s Message
to Diaspora Communities on
56th Israel Independence Day
April 2004
On the occasion of Yom Ha’atzmaut, I am pleased to send you greetings from Jerusalem - the eternal capital of the State of Israel and the Jewish People.
The Jewish State was forged in struggle. Fifty-six years later, although still wielding the sword to defend our nation, we can boast proudly of an independent Jewish democracy that continues to lead the world in fields such as medicine, technology, agriculture and the arts.
The war of terror launched against our country three and a half years ago has not broken our spirit or extinguished our desire for peace. Today, we remain firmly committed to eradicating the threat of terrorism facing the State of Israel, while simultaneously leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of peace.
We must also act vigorously to achieve our critical objective of bringing one million new immigrants to Israel over the next decade. A strong and vibrant Israel, energized by the contributions of these olim, is the key to Jewish survival in our homeland and throughout the Diaspora. At this historic juncture, the future of the Jewish people rests entirely in our collective hands. Now, more than ever before, we need you here with us.
United together, we can move forward and realize our shared dream of peace, security and prosperity in the Land of Israel.
Chag Sameach.
Ariel Sharon