Ambassador George H. Walker

Remarks at the Opening of the American Corner in Veszprém

Veszprém, Hungary
July 8, 2005

Ambassador Walker, Minister of Education Bálint Magyar, and Veszprém Mayor László Dióssy at the opening.

I'm delighted to be here to open this American Corner in the great town of Veszprém.

About a year ago, we opened Hungary's first American Corner in Pécs, and as you all know, that American Corner is now a vital part of the cultural community in Pécs.

When we afterward announced our plans to open a second American Corner in Hungary, we received impressive responses from cities throughout the nation. Many communities came forward with great plans, but it was the city of Veszprém that provided the most elaborate, well-developed proposal, one that was complete with a CD-ROM and extensive photos. The city of Veszprém was the clear winner in that selection process, though I am pleased to admit that Debrecen was close behind and that we are now moving forward to establish an American Corner in that city in the near future. But congratulations and cheers to the City of Veszprém.

Let me also congratulate you on the level of cooperation we have observed between the Mayor, the County Assembly and the University in establishing this American Corner that we are opening today. I want to compliment all the officials in the city and county for their unified commitment in seeking to bring the best in education and information to the people of the Veszprém community. All of you have made a solid contribution to strengthening U.S.-Hungarian relations and I value your personal commitment toward this cause.    

This American Corner will give the people of Veszprém the opportunity to learn more about the United States, through educational and reference materials, poster exhibits, multi-media, and technology-based programs, and provide a center for meeting and interacting with visiting Americans. Outfitted with some of America's most advanced information technology and Internet equipment, this American Corner will also instantly and effectively connect your community with others around the world. 

This American Corner is a place for those who are curious about the United States, a place where they can go and have their questions answered. It is also a place for those who care about the wonderful U.S.-Hungary relationship that we celebrate today, as well as a place to meet with others who share their interest. In that vein, I look forward to the day when Hungarian Corners are opened in the U.S.

First Lady Laura Bush alluded to these same sentiments when she inaugurated an American Corner in Bratislava, Slovakia, just this past February. She said:  "An understanding of other cultures is essential for our future and for future generations."

President Bush and his Administration recognize that we need to build and maintain our partnerships with countries that share our values, our love for freedom and respect for democracy and rule of law. That requires communication with the people, as well as governments. This American Corner in Veszprém represents not just the U.S. Embassy's efforts to reach out to the people of Hungary, but also the U.S. government's commitment to reaching out to the people of the world. 
 
Thank you.