President Shimon Peres has received letters from world leaders around the globe to mark Israel's 65th Independence Day, which was celebrated Monday night and Tuesday. Among those who sent messages of congratulations was US President Barack Obama, who wrote that, "The United States stood together with the State of Israel at its founding, and we will stand together with you always."Russian President Vladimir Putin's message said:"Dear Mr. President,I congratulate You on the occasion of the 65th Anniversary of thr Independence of the State of Israel. I am satisfied with the friendly character of Russian-Israeli relations. I am convinced that we will further develop constructive cooperation on political, trade-economic, scientific-technical, humanitarian and other fields; interact effectively in our effort to promote peace, stability and security in the Middle East.I wish You, Mr. President, good health and success, as well as peace and prosperity to the Israeli people.Respectfully,Vladimir PutinPresident of the Russian Federation"Obama wrote the following:"Dear Mr. President,On behalf of the American people, I congratulate the people of Israel on the 65th anniversary of Israel's independence on April 16.I was deeply honored to have the opportunity to visit Israel just a few weeks ago and to witness first-hand the deep and everlasting bond between our countries. Sixty-five years ago, the United States was the first nation between our countries to recognize Israel as an independent state, just eleven minutes after the State of Israel was proclaimed. Since then, our political, economic, security and cultural ties have only grown stronger.As Israelis celebrate Yom Ha'Atzmaut, the American people join me in applauding the remarkable Israeli achievements over the past six and a half decades. The United States stood together with the State of Israel at its founding, and we will stand together with you always.Sincerely,Barack Obama"Pope Francis I wrote:"His Excellency Shimon PeresPresident of the State of Israel,I send cordial greetings to you and your fellow citizens on the occasion of Israel's National Day. At the beginning of my Pontificate, I gladly invoke upon you and all the people of Israel the blessings of the Most High and assure you of my prayers for your high responsibilities at the service of the nation.Franciscus PP."
