| The Realization of Herzl's Dream by Benjamin Netanyahu (1998 New York Times Supplement) "Israel's Golden Anniversary" A century ago, Theodor Herzl, the father of modern Zionism, boldly predicted the establishment of a Jewish state in the Land of Israel. His prediction proved prescient. As Israel prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its establishment, we can take pride in the realization of Herzl's dream. Forging a vibrant democracy without parallel in the Middle East, Israel has successfully effected the "ingathering of exiles" from over 100 countries. Tens of thousands of immigrants continue to arrive at our shores every year, contributing their knowledge and energy to the rebirth of the Jewish nation in its ancestral homeland. Absorbing immigrants and tending to their needs remains one of our top priorities, and I am confident that within a decade, the majority of world Jewry will be living in Israel. As it approaches its jubilee, Israel is entering a challenging new era of economic development. For decades, much of Israel's entrepreneurial spirit and talent has been held back by burdensome government intervention, over-regulation and heavy taxation. The government is making liberalization, deregulation and privatization the central pillars of Israel's economic strategy. In the coming years, we will intensify our efforts to privatize government-held companies and to reduce the level of government interference in the private sector. Israel has become a popular destination for foreign investors, and we will strive to provide the economic climate necessary to facilitate expanded investment. Israel is particularly well-positioned to compete in the new age of advanced technological development. We enjoy a competitive advantage in knowledge-based industries and are second only to the United States in the number of computer-science startups. With the largest number of scientists per capita in the world, Israel can tap into an outstanding reservoir of human capital and creativity. I am convinced that we are on the threshold of an era of peace between Israel and its neighbors. With dedication and persistence we will continue to pursue a peace agreement which will ensure personal safety and national security. In the coming years, I envision a prosperous and strong Israel at peace with its neighbors. Israel will serves as a fountainhead of Jewish thought and inspiration, strengthening its ties with Disapora Jewry. Already known for its cultural, technological and medical prowess, Israel will also be a world center of computer science and telecommunications. Israel deeply values the support and encouragement of its many friends abroad. The nation's jubilee presents an unequalled opportunity to visit and strengthen bonds with the people and land of Israel. I look forward to welcoming them here. Benjamin Netanyahu is Prime Minister of the State of Israel |
