Congratulating Israel on OECD Membership

Floor Speech

Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1391, a resolution congratulating and commending Israel for its accession to membership in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, OECD.

On May 10th, it was announced that OECD member states had unanimously voted to extend membership to Israel. This landmark vote recognizes Israel's economic strength, and it is a clear victory over efforts to marginalize and delegitimize the country. Israel's accession to the OECD will speed its economic integration into the global community and provide increased opportunities for foreign investment.

Despite living under the constant threat of terror and war, Israel has developed one of the world's most robust economies. Last year, Israel boasted one of few economies in the world to show growth during the economic crisis. OECD has predicted a 3.5 percent increase in Israel's economy in 2010.

I visited Israel in early April and saw a modern, vibrant economy driven by scientific and technological advancement. While international attention remains fixed on the politics of the region, the OECD vote is a critical recognition of Israel's robust economy and ongoing innovation.

Last week, I joined over 30 of my colleagues in signing a letter to President Obama, thanking him for his administration's strong support of Israel's bid, as well as a letter to OECD Secretary-General Angel Guria expressing appreciation for the OECD vote.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly support Israel's accession to the OECD, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution.

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