Presentation of Credentials

(September 18, 2006)

Mr. President:

I have the honor to present to you, the President of the United States’ letter recalling Ambassador Ragsdale, who has resigned her mission here.  I also have the distinct honor to present to you my letter of credence from President Bush.

Mr. President, it is a special honor for me to serve as the United States’ Ambassador to you and the people of your country.  In my work here, I look forward to deepening the partnership that binds our two countries.

There are three things that are particularly important to me:

First, our work with you, your Government and the people of Djibouti, as well as with your partners from around the world, to create opportunities, jobs and prosperity for your children and grandchildren.

Second, our close security cooperation and strong efforts to protect our common security in a way that reflects Djibouti’s vital importance.  I am deeply grateful that Djibouti is a full partner in the world’s efforts to ensure security and achieve the prosperity that security makes possible.

Finally, Mr. President, our role working together throughout the region for peace and stability, for democracy and for religious tolerance.  I am keenly aware of the central place that Djibouti holds as a crossroads and I know that you have long been a strong personal advocate for peace.

To help you achieve those goals, I look forward to working with all those people of the United States who, like me, are fortunate enough to be guests in your country.

Mr. President, the family of Mankind began near here.  When Man began his march across the globe, you and your countrymen were there.  Ever since, you have helped unite the world through family ties, migration, and trade.  You did this long before anyone spoke of a “global economy.”  You did this in a world largely with walls.  We have much to learn from your success.

I look forward to learning from you have to live and work in a region not defended by its walls but by strong bonds of understanding, friendship and mutual interest.  My hope is that our common efforts will benefit both our peoples and that the light of Djibouti will shine brightly, showing other nations a safe path to peace, prosperity and freedom – like the beacon on the old tower at the edge of this town that has long guided sailors home to this safe and welcoming port.
 

Thank you very much, Mr. President.