Past Events 2006
Ambassador Foley Evaluates the NATO Summit in Veszprém
On December 8, 2006, Ambassador Foley visited Veszprém in the framework of the U.S. Embassy's outreach program. The visit gave an opportunity to evaluate the role and achievements of NATO in the immediate aftermath of the Riga Summit, to encourage young audiences to study in the United States, to meet with local policy decision makers and to establish ties with NGOs involved in highlighting important social issues.
At Pannon University Ambassador Foley gave a presentation highlighting the major issues dealt with at the NATO Riga Summit and the challenges facing NATO. Ambassador Foley underlined the importance of NATO as the most effective multilateral organization in the world, one with increasingly global missions, global capabilities and global partners. She spoke in detail about NATO's 10-year political framework for its continuing transformation, the new initiatives adopted at the Riga Summit, and the global partners needed to meet new challenges. Ambassador Foley also offered some thoughts about Hungary's participation in NATO from the U.S. perspective. She spoke highly of the active role Hungary plays leading a PRT in Afghanistan, and labeling the NATO mission there the biggest combat mission ever and a key priority for NATO.
Later in the morning Ambassador Foley addressed high school students from three schools: the László Lovassy High School, the Bilingual High School in Balatonalmádi, and the Technical High School of Veszprém about educational opportunities in the U.S. She explained scholarship opportunities to the students and urged them to pursue studies in the United States. Ambassador Foley stressed that ninety per cent of student visa applications are granted.
The Ambassador exchanged views and discussed possibilities for mutual cooperation with local dignitaries, Mayor János Debreczenyi, President of the County Assembly Jenő Lasztovicza, Bishop of Veszprém Dr. Gyula Márfi, and former Minister of Health Dr. Jenő Rácz, who is the director of the local hospital. Following the business lunch she met the Veszprém Women's Roundtable, a grassroots organization to promote women's issues. Ambassador Foley advised them on how women can pursue a successful professional career.
The Ambassador's program concluded with a visit to a foster home in nearby Ősi that has received support from the American Chamber of Commerce through one of its local charity beneficiaries.