FIRST REGULAR SESSION

House Concurrent Resolution No. 27

92^ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

2058L.02I

         Whereas, the states of Missouri and Israel share a deep and abiding friendship based on a shared commitment to democratic values; and

            Whereas, Missouri's own President Harry S Truman announced on May 14, 1948, that the United States would become the first country to recognize the new Nation of Israel; and

            Whereas, since its establishment, Israel has fulfilled the dreams of its founders who evidence a vigorous, open, and stable democracy; and

      Whereas, on January 28, 2003, the people of Israel elected Israel's 16th Knesset, or Parliament, which in turn will choose the Prime Minister of Israel; and

            Whereas, the election on January 28, 2003, is the most recent example of the commitment of Israel to the democratic ideals of freedom and pluralism, ideals that Israel shares with the United States:

            Now, therefore, be it resolved that the members of the House of Representatives of the Ninety-second General Assembly, First Regular Session, the Senate concurring therein, hereby:

            (1) Express their respect and admiration for the people of Israel;

            (2) Commend the people of Israel for reaffirming their dedication to democratic ideals as expressed in the election on January 28, 2003; and

            (3) Restate the mission of the Missouri-Israel Cooperative Agreement, signed by the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the Israeli Ministry of Industry and Trade in 1988, which calls for projects of mutual economic benefit through improved trade, technology development, science, agriculture, and tourism;

            Be it further resolved that the Chief Clerk of the Missouri House of Representatives be instructed to prepare properly inscribed copies of this resolution for the Prime Minister of Israel, Ariel Sharon, and the Missouri Department of Economic Development.