JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israeli President Shimon Peres told the annual gathering of the North American Jewish federation system that he has no fears about the new U.S. president.
Peres, speaking Monday to a plenary at the United Jewish Communities General Assembly, which is taking place in Jerusalem this week, said he is sure that Barack Obama will be good for the State of Israel.
“I am not an expert, but I have not the slightest doubt that the relationship between the United States and Israel will remain warm, profound and responsible,” Peres said during a wide-ranging speech about Israel’s future. “When Obama asked me what he can do for Israel, I told him, ‘Be a great president for the United States.’ Because the president of the United States, by definition has to fight terror and has to fight pollution and has to fight poverty and has to fight war. And without America, I don’t see anyone who will lead this struggle. America is not the policeman of the world, it is the country that helps others remain free.”
During the 45-minute speech, Peres also said he believes that the future of Israel depends on its ability to harvest solar energy, and to become a provider of drinking water and medical care.
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