Ambassador George H. Walker

Remarks at the Regional Environmental Center

Szentendre, Hungary
January 14, 2004

Marta and senior staff here at the Regional Environmental Center: I can't tell you how much we've been looking forward to this visit.

My wife, Carol, my cousin Nancy Bush Ellis and my sister, Betty Holden and I want to thank you for your hospitality, and the opportunity to learn about the great work you all are doing here and in the region. Nancy, in particular, had a special reason for wanting to visit the REC. After all, it was under her brother, the former President George Herbert Walker Bush, that this marvelous institution was envisioned and established. I know she is particularly pleased to be here.

I remember President Bush's stirring words at Karl Marx University back in 1989, and re-read them only a short time ago (and I thank you, Marta, for mentioning them today). Hungary was very courageous to turn down a new path at that time - and now, almost 15 years later, there is a great deal of which to be proud!

One of the major accomplishments of my cousin George's vision for Hungary is the Regional Environmental Center, where we are today. In his speech, George called for Hungary to be the seat of this institution because of its marvelous location in Central and Eastern Europe, and because he knew of the dedication of its citizens to repairing decades of environmental neglect. Carol and I have been here only since October, but we've had the opportunity to visit several cities, meet with the mayors and the people, and I can see why this country, this city, is such a perfect spot for a regional initiative.

Through the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States has provided about $11.5 million in support since 1990, and there are now Centers in over 15 countries! That's truly something exciting. Imagine the positive influence you are able to exert on the well-being of millions of people. While the U.S. government no longer supplies annual funding, I know that we still provide money for specific projects, and we still have a seat on the Board. And as a businessman, I know that's an important seat, indeed! In fact, during this last General Assembly, Marta, you as the new Executive Director, and all of you here, as well, presented the REC's plan for 2004, and I heard you did a smashing job.

I look forward to your presentations and to meeting the Country Officers later on in the morning. Once again, we thank you for your invitation - and now I'll let you get on with the program.