Dear Friends,

The 60th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel is a moving moment for Israeli citizens and for the Jewish People around the world. Together, we look with pride and satisfaction, as well as reflect upon the amazing achievement of the establishment of a sovereign and independent national home for the Jewish People in the State of Israel.

Together, we can rejoice in the miraculous accomplishments of Israel, a country which has become the center of the Jewish People, and laud the achievements that such a small country has made in all walks of life: in the sciences, medicine and hi-tech industries; in its advanced economy; in its thriving Hebrew language and Jewish culture; in the growth of the country with hundreds of cities and communities; in aliyah; and in research institutions, colleges and universities - all through the unique creativity and human capital that thrive in Israel.

Many of these achievements are the result of the power of our partnership over the past 60 years. Jewish communities around the world steadfastly stood by Israel with solid determination as the nascent country charted its course and pursued its dreams. This has been the case in times of peace, and even more so in times of crisis and war. Our unbroken bond with you, our brethren, is a central component of Israel's strength and the basis of the mutual responsibility between Israel and each one of you in the Diaspora.

The Jewish Agency, the largest global Jewish partnership, marks its 80th anniversary next year. Since its inception, it has served as a bridge, and strengthened the bond between Jewish communities around the world and Israel.

Today, this bond is as critical as it was when the State was founded 60 years ago. We still face so many difficult challenges in an era of assimilation and distancing from Jewish roots. An era in which anti-Semitism still exists in many parts of the world. An era in which the State of Israel is still trying to achieve peace with its neighbors and ensure personal security for all its citizens. An era in which the challenge of absorbing aliyah, deepening Jewish, democratic and egalitarian values in Israeli society and reducing the social gaps between Israel's center and its peripheral areas must take top priority.

In recognition of the importance of this bond and the enormous contribution the Jewish Agency has made over the years, the State of Israel has chosen to honor the Jewish Agency this year with the Israel Prize, the country's most prestigious award. This award is your award; we receive it in your name, as an expression of Israel's gratitude for the impact your vital support of the Jewish Agency and its activities made, and continue to make, throughout the Jewish world and in Israel.

I am certain that in the coming years we will continue, hand in hand, to strengthen Israel through aliyah, meet Israel's social challenges and connect the Jewish world's next generation. Our larger-than-life impact will resonate for years to come throughout the Jewish world.

Chag Sameach, Am Yisrael Chai!

Sincerely,

Zeev Bielski
Chairman of the Executive
Jewish Agency and World Zionist Organization

Recorded Greeting