Israel Has Some Friends Besides America

President Shimon Peres welcomed and honored Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli in an official ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem.

The leaders spoke warmly of each other's countries and pledged their mutual support.

President Martinelli told President Peres and attendees at the ceremony that he "preferred to speak from the heart," and enthused: "The Jewish heart is the same as Panama's heart." 

"As a citizen of Panama," said President Martinelli, "I say with great honor and joy: I will always support Israel, guardian of the world's capital, Jerusalem."

President Martinelli proclaimed that he was "proud" his government includes three Jewish ministers among various other Jewish government officials, as well as a thriving Jewish community. "I came to Israel to learn from your success, and I have no doubt that there is much to learn," said President Martinelli. "I am sure Israel and Panama have a strong and bright future in all our joint efforts."

 

President Peres returned President Martinelli's sentiments, telling his Panamanian counterpart, "In the name of Israel I want to thank you and the citizens of your country from the bottom of my heart for your long-standing friendship and support of Israel. Panama is also close to our hearts. Your country is a symbol of peace, a country without an army. We hope to one day to live like you, in security and in peace."

During their meeting, President Peres acquainted President Martinelli with Israel's scientific, technological, and agricultural achievements, and discussed the possibility of extending cooperation in those fields.