Independence Day: President welcomes diplomats, religious heads

As is his custom each year, President Shimon Peres welcomed the diplomats and religious leaders in Israel to his residence on the occasion of Israeli Independence Day. On this occasion, the President and the Foreign Minister address the audience. This year, it was Mr. Netanyahu who addressed those present as he holds the portfolio of Minister of Foreign Affairs as well as being Prime Minister.

Notable this year was when Mr. Peres divided humanity into two parts: one part calls out "Let my people go" and the other seeks to dominate other people, rendering them slaves. Strongly identifying with the first part, Mr. Peres then gave two examples of world leaders who struggle to free people from slavery: Mr. Obama, President of the United States of America and Pope Francis. According to Mr. Peres, Pope Francis has shown the world a model of humility and service.

On this occasion, Father David Neuhaus represented the Hebrew speaking Catholics in Israel at the reception.