Ottawa, April 26, 2012 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut, the anniversary of Israel’s Independence:
Sixty-four years ago, the Jewish State of Israel was born, marking the realization of a people’s longstanding dream of a state of their own in their historic homeland. Canada was one of 33 countries that voted in favour of the 1948 United Nations resolution which called for the creation of a Jewish state, and Canada was one of the first countries to formally recognize the State of Israel upon its founding.
Yom Ha'atzmaut is immediately preceded by Yom Ha’zikaron – Israeli Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terrorism Remembrance Day – illustrating the reality that many Israelis have had to lose their lives in the fight for the continued existence of the Jewish state.
The bonds between Canada and Israel continue to flourish and are strengthened by our shared values – freedom, democracy, human rights and rule of law. Our Government is committed to stand with Israel against those who seek to delegitimize and deny her existence. Canada will always speak up for our allies in the face of terrorism, including the hundreds of thousands of rockets launched into Israeli civilian population centers.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend warm regards to all Canadians and Israelis celebrating Israel’s Independence Day and wish them a Yom Ha’atzmaut Sameach.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Ana Curic
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
