Eisenhower Pledges Strengthening of Ties Between America and Israel

Praising the people of Israel for having “created a dynamic society, ” President Eisenhower today pledged the United States Government “to strengthen the already close ties of friendship and mutual understanding” between the U.S.A. and Israel.

Mr. Eisenhower’s pledge was voiced to Avraham Harman. Israel’s new Ambassador here, when he presented his formal letters of credence to the President in a ceremony at the White House.

Mr. Harman expressed to Mr. Eisenhower “the gratitude of the Government and people of Israel for the help and support we have received” from the United States Government He added that this is a solemn moment for me, for I am deeply conscious of the firm ties of friendship between the United States of America and Israel. “

Referring to his previous tour of duty in this country, when he was Israel Consul General in New York. Mr. Harman told President Eisenhower “I know I can look forward to understanding.”

“To us, ” continued Mr. Harman ,”the United States of America stand as a mighty nation whose policies are based on the sanctity of human life, and are directed to the Biblical vision of peace and fraternity among the peoples of the world. The young State of Israel seeks to guide its development in accordance with this vision, which it has inherited from its ancient prophets.

“In dedicating myself to the furtherance of the friendship between our countries, I hope that I may be privileged to receive at your hands the encouragement which was extended in such generous measure to my distinguished predecessor.”

ISRAEL HAS CREATED A ‘DYNAMIC SOCIETY’

Replying to Mr. Harman’s address, the President told the new Ambassador:

“I am deeply grateful for the sentiments you have expressed about my country’s dedication to peace and our efforts to that end. Indeed, no nation is too large or too small to share in the great task of securing peace in the world. In pursuing this cause, both of our countries draw inspiration from a common spiritual heritage, and are guided by our belief in the dignity of man and the right of all nations to enjoy freedom and independence.

“The people of Israel, many of whom have embarked on a new life in new surroundings, have created a dynamic society, whose achievements in the social, economic and scientific fields have won widespread admiration. The United States is pleased to have assisted Israel in its economic development, and wishes Israel every success in its endeavors to build a prosperous and stable economy.

“As you undertake your duties here, you may be assured that the United States Government will extend to you full cooperation in making your mission a successful one, and will work with you to strengthen the already close ties of friendship and mutual understanding between our two countries.”

Mr. Harman also extended to Mr. Eisenhower, on behalf of Israel’s President Itzhak Ben Zvi, “his best personal wishes for your continued good health and for the welfare of the United States of America. ” Among the Israeli people. Mr. Harman told General Eisenhower, “your name is cherished, in a direct personal way, as the commander of the forces who delivered the remnant of our people in Europe from the evil which was launched against humanity 20 years ago. The greater part of these survivors are today free citizens of Israel. “

In response, Mr. Eisenhower told the Ambassador: “I should be grateful if you would transmit to His Excellency. the President of Israel, my warm personal regards, and my hope for his continued good health and for the progress and prosperity of Israel.”

Mr. Harman is Israel’s third Ambassador to Washington. Eliahu Elath served in that post two years and was followed, in 1950, by Abba Eban, who headed the Embassy here from 1950 to May, 1959.