A message of appreciation to Israeli President Zalman Shazar from President Nixon was read here last night to a full house at Lincoln Centre’s Alice Tully Hall as the American Zionist Federation celebrated the 24th anniversary of the Jewish State with its annual show-and-speech gala. The message, sent to Shazar yesterday, was read by AZF president Rabbi Israel Miller, who quoted Nixon as writing:
“As Israel nears completion of the first quarter-century of its modern life, I want you and your people to know that there exists in this country a special sentiment of appreciation of the joy and pride you feel on this anniversary. To a degree unusual in peoples so widely separated by continents and oceans, we have shared the hopes and concerns of your national development. We share, too, your aspirations for a just and lasting peace with your neighbors, and hope this 24th year of Israel’s independence will mark a decisive stage in progress toward that goal. I send you congratulations and sincere best wishes on this happy occasion.”
SIGNS OF SHIFT IN ARAB THINKING
Israeli Consul General David Rivlin told the audience that “For the first time now since our independence and statehood, we can say that there is a chance for peace between Israel and her Arab neighbors, that there are signs on the horizon for a shift in Arab thinking, at least among the more enlightened of their leaders, towards a political settlement.” Rivlin said Israel could be proud of “a glorious record of achievements attained through trials and tribulations, sweat and blood and great sacrifice such as no other nation has experienced in this century.”
Rabbi Miller declared that “Though the road to peace is still long and arduous we are grateful that the borders of Israel are quiet and that the brave men and women of Israel’s citizen army are there to assure their security.” Also addressing the assemblage was Gen. Avraham Yoffe, head of Israel’s Nature Preserve Authority, who led the capture of Sharm el-Sheikh and the Mitla Pass. Premier Golda Meir, in a recorded message, spoke of Israel’s domestic accomplishments and of the external challenges from its “Arab neighbors.” Mrs. Max Schenk, president of Hadassah, chaired the meeting.
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