Celebration of Israel's 50th Anniversary Features IALC, Projects in Israel

(16 July 1998)

Washington, D.C.'s stately Union Station was home to a week-long celebration of Israel's 50th birthday, from June 2nd to June 10th, 1998. The renovated train station on Capitol Hill hosted a series of events and multiple displays promoting the accomplishments of Israel since its inception in 1948. The Embassy of Israel, the Israel Ministry of Tourism, The American-Israel Chamber of Commerce, Inc., and the Jewish National Fund (a founding member of the IALC) played host to the numerous corporations, Israeli agencies and nonprofit organizations that participated. Exhibits from all participants filled the station, allowing visitors to view displays, photographs, videos and artifacts.

As part of the "Agritech '99" exhibit, which highlighted Israel's agricultural feats, the IALC's display featured photographs, information on the Consortium's members, programs, and partnership with the JNF, as well as the IALC promotional video and Center for Middle East Desert Policy Initiatives video. Visitors were also welcome to take home a packet of information on the IALC.

This special celebration brought in thousands of visitors, including world-renowned performers and Israeli officials; featured seminars, Israeli films, and a fashion show; and held two separate, special ceremonies honoring Israeli Ambassador Ben-Elissar and Robert Kennedy.