May 12, 2008 / 7 Iyar 5768

The Jewish Agency for Israel was awarded the 2008 Israel Prize on Israel’s 60th Independence Day on Thursday (May 8) at the formal ceremony in Jerusalem.

The prize, Israel's highest civilian honor to organizations and individuals, was presented by President Shimon Peres to Jewish Agency Chairman Zeev Bielski in recognition of the Jewish Agency’s "achievement and special contribution to society and the State of Israel.” In awarding the Israel Prize, the Jewish Agency was cited for its “tireless efforts” as a pioneering force in the establishment of the State of Israel and its continuing contributions in strengthening Israeli society, partnering the people of Israel with Jewish communities around the world, and deepening the connection of the Jewish next generation throughout the world.

“Receiving the Israel Prize on Israel’s 60th anniversary is a symbolic expression of the central contribution of the Jewish Agency to the establishment of the State of Israel and to the strengthening of Israeli society over the last 80 years,” said Jewish Agency Chairman Zeev Bielski. “In being named for the Israel Prize, we recognize the role of the Jewish communities and federations around the world which have stood behind the work of the Jewish Agency over the decades and especially our founding partners, the United Jewish Communities and Keren Hayesod.”

Israel’s President Shimon Peres presents Jewish Agency Chairman Zeev Bielski with the Israel Prize, Israel’s highest civilian honor to individuals and organizations, on Israel’s 60th Independence Day on Thursday (May 8) in Jerusalem in recognition of the Jewish Agency’s “achievement and special contribution to society and the State of Israel.”

Photo credit: Sasson Tiram