There has been no visit to Israel by a British prime minister since Mrs.
Thatcher was in Israel in 1986. There have been periodic meetings with
Britain's leaders in London and in Jerusalem. Meanwhile, the relations
between the two nations have reached an unprecedented level of friendship
and cooperation in many spheres. The visit of John Major was an
opportunity to review these ties, compare notes on Middle Eastern
developments and deepen the understanding between the two nations. Text of
Prime Minister Rabin's welcoming remarks follow:
Prime Minister and Mrs. Major,
Members of the British Delegation,
Dear Friends,
Welcome to Jerusalem, the eternal capital of Israel and the heart of the
Jewish people.
The history of the relations between Britain and Israel has known happier
hours as well as painful hours. This is a happy hour. We choose to
remember today the happier moments between us: the Balfour Declaration,
which established a national homeland for the Jewish people in Eretz
Yisrael, Britain's courageous stand during World War II in fighting the
Nazi air blitz and all that we have absorbed of the British culture during
the British Mandate. These will forever bind us together.
You have come back to us today, forty-seven years after you left Israel
and this time Israel is extending its hand to you and embracing you warmly
with open arms.
Mr. Prime Minister,
We are witnessing today close and very friendly relations between
Jerusalem and London. Even if in the past and maybe in the future, there
have been differences of opinion between our two countries, we know that
you have always been concerned about the problems of peace and security of
Israel and the Middle East.
The strong and friendly ties between our countries today are largely due
to your efforts, Mr. Prime Minister and we thank you for that.
Mr. Prime Minister,
This is also a wonderful opportunity to congratulate you personally, the
members of your Government and your people, on the steps you have taken
for reconciliation and peace with Northern Ireland. From first-hand
experience at making peace, I understand the challenges and the
difficulties and I wish you every success.
In the short time we have together, you will get to know the Israelis as a
people who pursue peace, who are building a new country with tremendous
determination and with great sacrifice, while combating the difficult
battle against terror and enemies who rise to murder us. A people who
daily fight hardships and who are making history these days through their
efforts to achieve peace.
During your visit we will try to give you and the delegation accompanying
you on this journey, a true picture of the State of Israel: the
challenges, the opportunities and the struggles. We want you to know, Mr.
Prime Minister, that we see you and your people as dedicated partners and
sincere friends.
The Government and the State of Israel warmly shakes your hand and thanks
you in appreciation. From the bottom of our hearts, we say to you: Shalom
and Welcome to Israel.