I have great respect for the Marshall Islands, however I think it is one of those rare cases in which a small country is represented by a large empire. This empire is Rani Rahav, a one-man empire, or actually, I should have said two-men, Rani and Hila, an empire which undoubtedly makes its mark on the economic and social life of the state of Israel.
To the best of my memory, if I am not mistaken, Rani, it’s been 22 years since the day you started off at the very same place you now stand with your guests… I’ll tell you a small secret. Several years before that, when you were a culture sergeant in the IDF Air Force, you approached me. I was then a member of the Knesset, and you asked me to come and give a lecture in some military base or another. To me it was clear right after the first time you approached us, that no matter how many times I might have said no, eventually I would have come to lecture just as you requested. That, indeed, was the case. And throughout the years, as I had asked more and more people, it turned out that the particular groupof people, including me, who are unable to stand in the way of your tremendous energies, includes almost all of the entire state of Israel.
And so, those present today are only a small portion of all the people who appreciate, not only your professional abilities, which are as important. Because otherwise there wouldn't have been so many people and companies seeking your services. Those present today know to appreciate endless dedication on social and humane issues, that you also – are totally dedicated to.

I wish to congratulate you. I don’t know if I can speak for all 1,000 people who are here, but on behalf of Aliza and myself, to warmly embrace you and to thank you for everything that you are doing. I would also like to ask to keep on pursuing this with the same enthusiasm, the same energies, and the same human warmth that is so characteristic of you.