Media Releases

6 January 2006

Ehud Olmert
Acting Prime Minister
Office of the Prime Minister
Jerusalem

Dear Ehud,

While we pray for the speedy and complete recovery of Ariel Sharon from illness, we are writing to you to convey our support and best wishes as you assume the Prime Ministerial office at this difficult time.

The vibrancy and resilience of Israeli democracy will guarantee a smooth transition of power until the next Prime Minister will be chosen in free and open elections. Given our long and constructive association with you, the Australia/Israel and Jewish Affairs Council is confident that the Israeli ship of state at this sensitive time has a wise and responsible helmsman at the wheel.

We are saddened to have to write you under circumstances such as these, and we join both you and the entire Israeli people in their hope that Prime Minister Sharon will be restored to full health.

Warmest regards,

Mark Leibler AC
National Chairman

Dr. Colin Rubenstein
Executive Director