PARAMUS - Further strengthening the bilateral ties between New Jersey and Israel, Governor Jon S. Corzine today signed legislation establishing the New Jersey Israel Commission as a permanent commission within the Department of State.

"Israel is one of the Garden State's most important international partners," said Governor Corzine. "By signing this legislation, we will enhance an historic collaborative partnership that has flourished for twenty years in areas ranging from technology growth and investment to cultural and educational enrichment. As a permanent working group, I am certain the New Jersey-Israel Commission will continue to foster and advance our landmark relationship with the State of Israel."

As a symbol of potential cooperation, New Jersey signed a Sister-State Agreement with the State of Israel in 1988 to work collaboratively on areas focusing on trade, cultural and educational exchanges as well as the development of capital investment and joint business ventures.

"This is a wonderful day for New Jersey, the State of Israel and the unique sister state relationship that's flourished for two decades," said Secretary of State Nina Mitchell Wells. "This permanent designation is proof of how important our economic and cultural ties to Israel are, and how this partnership will remain a cornerstone of New Jersey's larger international presence for years to come. To say we're thrilled is an understatement."

"Over the past 60 years, the State of New Jersey has worked to create a good relationship with Israel, through trade and cultural exchanges," said Senator Loretta Weinberg, (D-Bergen). "This is our way of congratulating our 'sister state' on 60 years, as we look forward to reinforce our current partnerships and forge new ones."

"Through the codification of the Commission, we are protecting the current agreement covering exchange programs we have with Israel, while also congratulating its people on reaching such a significant milestone," said Senator Robert Gordon, (D-Bergen).

The New Jersey-Israel Commission was established as a temporary commission in 1989 and has continued its temporary status through executive orders. Governor Corzine extended and continued the commission until January of 2012.

"Israel has been a steadfast friend and faithful ally of the United States over the past six decades, all the while showing immense bravery in the face of countless terrorist attacks," said Assemblymen Gordon M. Johnson (D-Bergen). "It's also developed one of the world's most vibrant economies, so anything New Jersey can do to promote and maintain ties with Israel is the right thing to do."

The bill, S-2240/A-3162, maintains the current membership of the commission of between 15 and 100 members, all of whom are appointed by the Governor until December 31, 2011.

As of January 1, 2012, the bill establishes a commission membership of 85, including eight legislators and 77 public members.

Primary sponsors of the legislation in the Senate were Senators Loretta Weinberg (D-Bergen) and Robert M. Gordon (D-Bergen). In the Assembly, primary sponsors were Assemblymen Gordon M. Johnson (D-Bergen), Gary S. Schaer (D-Bergen, Essex, Passaic), Declan J. O'Scanlon Jr., (R-Mercer, Monmouth) and Assemblywomen Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen), Caridad Rodriguez (D-Hudson) and Caroline Casagrande (R-Mercer, Monmouth).

Israel is one of New Jersey's top international markets, growing 195 percent from 2006 to 2007. Israel now ranks as New Jersey's ninth largest trading partner in 2007, up from 22nd in 2006.

Governor Corzine also signed SJR-62/AJR-102, congratulating Israel on its 60th anniversary. Officially, May 14 of 2008 marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel.

"Our ties with Israel run deep," added Governor Corzine. "We believe in the spirit and achievements of the modern State of Israel, and we are thrilled to be part of the celebration going on across the globe."

"For many New Jerseyans, family ties connect them directly to Israel," said Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen). "Honoring Israel in this anniversary year also honors the families here in New Jersey who yearn for nothing more a secure future for their loved ones."

"Given the close political, economic and cultural ties between Israel and the United States, it's fitting to recognize and honor Israel on the 60th anniversary of its founding," said Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt (D-Camden). "Israel is a friend and ally of the United States and has come to this nation's aid in times of crisis. We should commemorate and honor what its accomplished."

Primary sponsors in the Senate were Senators Loretta Weinberg (D-Bergen) and Robert M. Gordon (D-Bergen). In the Assembly, primary sponsors were Assemblymen Gordon M. Johnson and Gary S. Schaer (D-Bergen, Essex, Passaic), and Assemblywomen Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen), Caroline Casagrande (R-Mercer, Monmouth), Marcia A. Karrow (R-Warren, Hunterdon), Pamela R. Lampitt (D-Camden) and Linda R. Greenstein (D-Mercer, Middlesex).

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 Photos from Governor Corzine's public events are available
in the Governor's Newsroom section on the State of New Jersey web page, http://www.nj.gov/governor/news/