Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House of Commons to bring two special greetings.
First, with the enduring friendship that binds our two democracies, greetings to the state of Israel on the occasion of its 48th anniversary of independence. A dynamic country which enjoys a long and rich history and which links Jews throughout the world, greetings of peace, security and prosperity as we celebrate Yom HaAtzmaout.
Second, this year marks a very special milestone in the history of Jerusalem, one of the world's most ancient and beautiful cities, a spiritual city central to three of the world's major religions. Jerusalem 3000 is being feted with many wonderful cultural and educational events here in Canada and in most major cities and countries around the world as well as in Israel.
As our Prime Minister said in his message quoting from the Psalms: "For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will say now, peace be within thee, Jerusalem".
Hag sameach-Yerushalim Shel Zahav. Happy birthday.