June 23, 2008 / 20 Sivan 5768

The Jewish Agency salutes the Prime Minister, Mr. Ehud Olmert, on the vision he presented, on June 20th, 2008, in his historic address to the Board of Governors Plenary in Jerusalem. This vision reflects a major change in the paradigm of the relationship between the State of Israel and the Jewish People in the Diaspora and a strengthening of the partnership between the Government of Israel and the Jewish world.

The Jewish Agency applauds the Prime Minister's declared intention to increase significantly the Government of Israel's commitment, responsibility and investment in securing the future of the Jewish People. 

The Jewish Agency is honored to be called upon to meet the request of the Prime Minister presented today. The Agency will act on behalf of the Government of Israel to lead the process of strengthening the bonds between the State of Israel and the Jewish People in the Diaspora, through a comprehensive planning process in consultation with Jewish communities, organizations and leaders in Israel and the Diaspora.

The Jewish Agency regards the mission of deepening Jewish identity in the Diaspora and strengthening the bond between Israel and the Diaspora as crucial for the years to come.  This mission is in addition to strengthening Aliyah, Jewish-Zionist education in the Diaspora, and narrowing the gaps in Israeli society, particularly in national priority areas – the Negev, Galil and Jerusalem.