Today's Date:

Vice Prime Minister,

Allow me to offer you, the Israeli people and your loved-ones my warm congratulations on the 60th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel.

In 60 years Israel has built a democratic State, a successful and dynamic economy and radiated a brilliant and open culture, particularly through its literature and cinema, around the world.

President Shimon Peres’ State visit to France last March confirmed the renewal, strength and quality of relations between our two countries. These relations can only grow richer and deeper in all their components. A new page has been turned in bilateral relations with Israel which will continue with President Sarkozy’s State visit to Israel in June.

As you know, France is also attentive to Israel’s wish to develop ties with the European Union. Israel can count on our country’s support, especially in the framework of the forthcoming French presidency, to inject a new dynamic into her relations with the European Union.

You may be assured that France stands ready to support all efforts towards a just and lasting peace in the region. We fully support the Israeli government and the President of the Palestinian Authority in the political process they have initiated with courage and determination.

So that there may be an end to the suffering that the Israelis and Palestinians have known for too many long years, I hope the next few months see landmark progress in the current negotiations towards a final settlement. I know your determined commitment to this passionate obligation. The goal now is for everyone to work together to found, before the end of 2008, an independent, democratic and viable Palestinian State living in peace and security alongside Israel.

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