1948年に、初代首相のダヴィド・ベングリオンがイスラエル独立を宣言してから今年で66年になります。
第66回独立記念日に際して、イスラエル各都市や大自然の魅力をコマ送りで撮影したビデオ「24HR Israel」が公開されました。お楽しみください！
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKQqExx8wsk&feature=youtu.be
また、シモン・ペレス大統領とビニヤミン・ネタニヤフ首相からの、イスラエル国外に在住するユダヤ人へのメッセージを以下にご紹介します(英文)。
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シモン・ペレス大統領より、独立記念日に際してのメッセージ
Dear Friends,As we stand poised to celebrate Israel’s 66th anniversary, we take a moment to reflect on the past and contemplate our prayers for the future. I am pleased to invite you, our extended family, to join us on this day of festivity, as together we take pride in Israel’s achievements and prepare to build a brighter tomorrow for Israel and the Jewish people in the best of Jewish tradition – Tikkun Olam.The year ahead will present us with many challenges. The shifting sands of the Middle East generate a sense of insecurity in what tomorrow holds. Change, however, can also present opportunities for new and better prospects that should be seized. With this in mind, Israel strives to become a significant contributor to the development of our region and to the world at large. Our Jewish values should be our guiding light, inspiring us to persevere in the pursuit of peace, a Jewish mission – and a dream – in which we must never lose faith. For those who seek a better tomorrow for our country, the promise of peace shines as a beacon of hope, calling us to stand strong against the hurdles on the path to harmony. My sisters and brothers, on this auspicious day of Yom Ha'atzmaut, my message goes out to each and every one of you: Be proud of our heritage, continue to stand united in a spirit of solidarity and partnership, and continue to build a future for our country and people with the hope for peace in your hearts.חג עצמאות שמח!Shimon Peres
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ビニヤミン・ネタニヤフ首相より、独立記念日に際してのメッセージ
Israel's Independence Day is a time for celebration. And for justified pride in Israel’s many amazing successes.
For some two millennia the Jewish people had been stateless and powerless, and, of course, defenseless in the face of its enemies. After 2000 years of exile we returned to our historic homeland to re-establish our independence and sovereignty.
Yet we didn’t only create a state.
We have ingathered into our homeland a people that had been scattered around the globe.
We have defended ourselves against the attacks of hostile neighbors, overcoming threats faced by no other country.
We have built a vibrant democracy in which freedom is sacrosanct, guaranteeing equality under the law and the rights of every citizen.
We have created a robust economy, a global technological superpower.
We have signed peace treaties with two of our Arab neighbors, while we quietly talk with many more.
And while doing all this we have enjoyed the passionate friendship of so many around the world. Jews and non-Jews alike have united to speak out for Israel's right to security and a peaceful future.
This support from our friends, together with Israel’s vibrant democracy, free economy, strong army and commitment to our shared values, form the foundation of our national strength.
So on this 66th Independence Day, I want to thank Israel’s many friends around the globe for their steadfast support for the one and only Jewish state.
And I would like to send special greetings to our special friends who have gathered at Phillips Square in Montreal to celebrate with us. Your show of support for Israel today reflects the strong friendship shared by the Israeli and Canadian peoples. The bond between us was strengthened even further this past January when I had the pleasure of hosting my friend Prime Minister Harper here in Jerusalem.
On behalf of the people of Israel, thank you all for your friendship and for your support.