Jerusalme, 28 December 1999 Message from the Prime Minister of the State of Israel Mr. Ehud Barak to the Christian Communities of the World on the occasion of the New Year   The Government of Israel extends the season's greetings to its Christian citizens of all denominations, and to all Christians the world over, on the occasion of Christmas and the New Year. The upcoming New Year, which is the first of the third millennium, will undoubtedly be of great significance for the spiritual and material life of each and every person in the region, regardless of religion or creed. The Government of Israel is confident that the aspirations for peace, security, economic well-being and a coexistence based on mutual respect, are shared by citizens of all communities. The Government of Israel is steadfast in its desire and its commitment to guarantee the right of its Christian citizens to freedom of religion, freedom of worship and freedom of access to its holy sites. These rights, as well as the right to economic viability and personal security, shall always be safeguarded, so that the Christian community can continue to prosper free from concerns of civic, social, economic or personal security. The Christian population has always been an inseparable part of the human fabric of the land, and the Government is committed to do its utmost to maintain this community's constructive and creative contribution to the State, to society and to the development of Christian life in Israel.