“The relationship between the U.S. and Israel has deep and enduring roots that go back far beyond the restoration of the Jewish state of Israel on May 14, 1948.”

Governor Mike Pence (L) and United with Israel Executive Director David Zeit. (Photo: UWI)

Indiana Governor Mike Pence is in Israel on a nine-day trip combining business and pleasure. He met with government officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Economy Naftali Bennett, and Israeli entrepreneurs.

The governor also took time to visit Bethlehem and other significant sights while celebrating Christmas in the Holy Land with his wife and three children.

Speaking in Tel Aviv on Wednesday at an Israel-America Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Pence said that he is here because he supports Israel and is promoting the advantages of doing business in Indiana.

The governor noted that more than 70 Indiana companies do business in Israel. Many Israeli companies are doing business in Indiana as well.

Speaking to the group, the governor stressed America’s strong relationship with Israel:

“At this time of year, as we focus on the ideals of hope and peace, I also am reminded that the relationship between the United States and Israel has deep and enduring roots that go back far beyond the restoration of the Jewish state of Israel on May 14, 1948. The ties between our countries are much deeper and more profound than our policies and trade.”

This is his third visit to Israel, although his first as governor of Indiana as well as the first time with his children. While the sights and history inspire awe, he said, he was most impressed by “what this nation stands for, and the self-reliance, determination and entrepreneurial spirit that defines who you are as a people.”

‘Israel is More than Just an Ally’

While lauding the technological and entrepreneurial feats of the Jewish state and citing similarities between the pioneering spirit of Israelis and the people of Indiana, the governor also emphasized Israel’s right to live in peace within secure and defensible borders. America must uphold that right by rejecting efforts within the UN to impose conditions on negotiations that would undermine Israel’s security, he stated.

Israel is much more than just an ally, but a beacon of hope in the midst of a “troubled region of the world,” Pence asserted.

He concluded:

“The truth is, America and Israel are bound together by the common foundation: a belief in faith, family, democracy and liberty. And on behalf of the millions of Hoosiers who share that conviction, I say from my heart, we will never abandon our most cherished ally, the Jewish state of Israel. We will never forget Jerusalem, her eternal capital. And, we will never fail to pray that God might bless all the good people of every faith who call her home, now and forever.”

United with Israel would especially like to thank our nearly 50,000 supporters who live in the state of Indiana, as well as Governor Pence for being such a good friend.

By: Penina Taylor, United with Israel