The Knesset's Tu Bishvat party with distinguished soldiers from the passing year

Knesset Speaker Joseph Shprinzak:

Before we adjourn this sitting, allow me to say a few words. At this time, the Knesset has been in existence for seven years, and tonight we welcome its eighth year.

Though the hour is not right for excessive celebrations, we found that it would be appropriate to mark the Knesset’s birthday celebration. This day marks to the people that great value of having an elected legislative institution, doing its best to direct the state in its procedures of building our lives, fortifying our independence, and guaranteeing defense of our nation in its entirety – the nation of the Jewish people, the nation of universal human aspirations.

I do not wish to evaluate the work and procedures of this Knesset – the third – which was recently elected by the majority of the people, and is still in its early stages.

I do wish to clarify that everyone feels that the status of the Knesset has become recognized by the nation, by the Diaspora and among the international community; and despite the harsh mishaps that occur over time, the Knesset is progressing in fulfilling its position as a central, Jewish house of legislation and matters of interest.

President Yitzhak Ben-Zvi with Arab Knesset members at the Tu Bishvat party

This house, which embodies the fundamentals of democracy as freedom of speech and opinion, is an important factor in the creation of contact between Israel and different nations and countries, as well as enhancing existing relationships through mutual parliamentary visits. Among these I wish to note our parliamentary delegations that are invited to parliaments in Scandinavia; the visit of the president of the Finnish parliament, and the extremely valuable visit of the delegation from the parliament and senate of the Low Countries.

The legislative work of the Knesset is often interrupted, as its discussions are dedicated to external events of intentional disruptions in the life and peaceful development of the State of Israel. We are all aware of the harsh situation and the external dangers lurking about us at this time. However, we will all believe in the eternal love for the nation and the dedication to Zion, which are – despite the differences within this house – instrumental in helping the Third Knesset to overcome them in its work, and by uniting the people’s representatives in mutual defense of the state and removing the obstacles found in working for its fortification and blossoming.

The unity in opinions, which was expressed recently on the debate regarding foreign and defense issues held on the 8th of Heshvan – that unity will foster the working procedures of the Knesset and uplift this house of legislation during these tough times.

Out of belief in the Knesset and its designation, I invite you tonight to celebrate its birthday.

The next sitting will be held tomorrow at 16:00.