Heads of state send Peres letters of congratulations

In honor of Israel’s 65th birthday, Obama, Putin, Pope Francis and other world leaders convey friendship, prayers, and wishes for peace

By ToI Staff 16 April 2013, 4:26 pm

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Ex-president Shimon Peres greets US President Barack Obama at a reception held in Obama's honor at Peres's residence in Jerusalem on March 20, 2013. (Yossi Zamir/Flash90)

World leaders sent President Shimon Peres letters of congratulations Tuesday in honor of the 65th anniversary of Israel’s independence.

In a letter dated April 3, US President Barack Obama told Peres that the American people join him in “applauding the remarkable Israel achievements over the past six and a half decades” adding that the United States will always stand together with Israel.

Obama, who wrapped up his first presidential visit to the region last month, said he was “deeply honored to have the opportunity to visit Israel.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent his congratulations, noting that he was “satisfied with the friendly character of Russian-Israeli relations.”

Putin wished Peres health and success “as well as peace and prosperity to the Israeli people.”

In his letter to Peres, Pope Francis told the president: “I gladly invoke upon you and all the people of Israel the blessings of the Most High and assure you of my prayers for your high responsibilities at the service of the nation.”

Peres also received congratulatory letters from the leaders of Switzerland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Slovenia, Croatia, Armenia, Finland, Sri Lanka, India and Nepal.