Solana addressed the manifold common political, religious and cultural heritage between Israel, the U.S. and Europe. Accordingly, the Second World War not only provided the impetus for the creation of Israel, but also for the transformation of Europe, both with significant help from the U.S. As such, Europe bears a special responsibility for the state of Israel. He said that Europe is ready to fulfill her role, as a partner of all parties in the search for lasting peace. He also pledged for an interfaith dialogue between Christians, Jews and Muslims, and thanked the AJC for having worked in the best traditions of this shared heritage of culture and religion – “openness, dialogue and respect for the views of others.”