Olmert congratulates Obama
Photo: Avi Ohayon, GPO
Olmert: We share in America's joy
PM congratulates incoming US president, says he expects US-Israel ties to grow stronger
As President-elect Barack Obama made his last preparations to enter the White House, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert issued a congratulatory statement Tuesday evening to welcome America's new leader into office.
"The prime minister expresses his gratitude to outgoing United States President George W. Bush for the friendship and closeness between Israel and the US during his term in office," the statement read.
"On this festive day of democracy, the prime minister congratulates America and President Barack Obama, who is taking office today," Olmert wrote. "The entire State of Israel shares America's joy and sends its well-wishes to the president being sworn in this evening."
The prime minister also expressed his confidence that the ties between the two countries will grow even stronger during Obama's term in office. He said that the incoming president impressed the entire world during his journey to the White House with his ability to inspire his people and global citizens.
"The values of democracy, fraternity, and liberty that constitute the pillars of American society are also shared by Israeli society, along with the belief in humanity's ability to change and affect its surroundings," Olmert wrote. "We wish the incoming president success in his post and are certain that we shall be full partners in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East."
