Ambassador George H. Walker

Message from Ambassador George H. Walker in Appreciation of Support for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina

Great thanks to the people of Hungary for their thoughts, prayers and expressions of support and sympathy as we learn of the extent of damage and losses from Hurricane Katrina.  The kind words and generosity of spirit we have received from people and organizations throughout Hungary are truly touching and reaffirm the enduring friendship between Hungary and the United States. 

The Government of Hungary has offered to send a team of rescue workers and medical supplies to assist with the recovery efforts in the United States. The Hungarian Baptist Aid team is already on the ground and contributing to rescue efforts. Other private organizations with considerable international experience, such as the Főnix Special Ambulance Service, have also contacted us to offer support. 

We know several voluntary organizations, such as the Faith Church and Hungarian Interchurch Aid, have made very generous monetary contributions to U.S. disaster relief organizations. And we know from phone calls and e-mails that many individual Hungarians have also made contributions, more modest in size but as generous of heart. One pensioner called to tell us how the United States had given him a temporary home for several decades after 1956 and asked for information on how he could now offer some comfort to those Americans who lack shelter in the wake of this disaster. 

While this is a time of sorrow for many in the United States, we are heartened by the solidarity we have received from around the world. As Secretary Rice noted, "we have seen the American people respond generously to help others around the globe during their times of distress, such as during the recent tsunami. Today, we are seeing a similar urgent, warm and compassionate reaction from the international community in response to Katrina."  

The people of Hungary have been tremendously generous in this time of recovery, and I am deeply honored as President Bush's representative here to thank you on his behalf and that of the American people.  

Ambassador George H. Walker

Message from Ambassador George H. Walker in Appreciation of the City of Debrecen Tribute to New Orleans

It is with deep gratitude that I learned that the organizers of this year's Debrecen Jazz Days would once again honor the spirit of New Orleans, this time in recognition of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina.

In 2004, visitors to the Debrecen Jazz Days festival were transported to the wonders of New Orleans and new audiences in Hungary enjoyed the rich musical heritage of the city we Americans call the “Big Easy.” Debrecen Jazz Days is more than just a musical festival, it is a celebration of culture that has helped create understanding and build bridges between our two countries. Your tribute to the culture of not one, but two great American cities, does us a great honor.

Over the past week, the U.S. Embassy has received many letters and calls of support and sympathy from our Hungarian friends. A number of them included recollections of memorable travels to New Orleans and other great cities of the American south. Some expressed sadness that they had not yet had a chance to visit this unique city that has become familiar to so many people around the globe for its music, arts, and cuisine.

In his visit last week to Louisiana, President Bush said "I understand it seems dark right now, but by working together and pulling together and capturing that great spirit of our country, a great city will rise again, a great state will be vibrant." The City of Debrecen and the jazz musicians of Debrecen are helping us keep that spirit strong.

I express my great thanks to Mayor Lajos Kosa and Vice Mayor Gabor Turi who are both honorary citizens of New Orleans, and most honorable friends of the United States.