Cuomo to Attend Peres Funeral

Statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo

“New York is home to more than 1.7 million Jews – the largest Jewish community outside of Israel in the world – and the community is mourning the loss of a larger-than-life figure. Former President Shimon Peres was a leader and a statesman, and an especially wonderful friend to all of us. He will be missed dearly. Tomorrow, I will be traveling to Israel for President Peres’ funeral to pay my respects on behalf of all New Yorkers. New York has always had a special relationship with Israel, and this trip will ensure that our state has an opportunity to say goodbye to President Peres and honor his devotion to the people of Israel and Jews across the world.”

Last night, Governor Cuomo released the following statement after the death of Shimon Peres:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former President of Israel Shimon Peres. He was not only a great leader for his country, but one of the most profound statesmen our world has ever known.

"Serving in nearly every high office of government, Shimon Peres dedicated his life to his country and his people. He worked tirelessly to reaffirm their rights and freedoms and, following the systematic annihilation of six million fellow Jews, he worked to ensure their future by helping to establish an independent Jewish state. Shimon later devoted his life to the pursuit of peace and economic cooperation, an effort he pursued with determination and dignity until the end.

"I offer my deepest condolences to the Peres family and to all Israelis. I will remember Shimon as a friend to both me and my father, and honor him as a friend to all of New York and to all defenders of peace across the world." 

Source: Press Office, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo