The staff and families of Embassy Dushandbe today welcomed U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in Tajikistan.
Secretary Clinton thanked the Embassy for welcoming her and giving her opportunity to thank them in person for their commitment to further and deepen the relationship between the two countries.
“And I want to thank you all for doing everything you’ve done to organize this trip, to make it efficient and hopefully very successful, because we want to convey a strong – a sense of friendship and partnership to the government and people of Tajikistan. I want to also thank DCM Sarah Penhune for her work and for leading a lot of the incredible efforts on my trip and elsewhere.” -Ms. Clinton
She also thanked the local staff in the Embassy. She said that the entire operation could not function without them. She acknowledged their accomplishments since the Embassy opened and the American staff were able to return.
Ms. Clinton stated that the United States is hoping to make contributions that will give the people of the country a better future.
“Earlier this year with USAID, you helped connect farmers in remote regions with seed merchants from here in the city. You’re working with NGOs to help – or I guess, what do we call them – public organizations to make the connections to how people learn how to start businesses and acquire trades. You’ve rehabilitated water systems that will provide clean drinking water to thousands of people. You’ve worked with over 500 teachers on new ways of reaching students. And all of it is done against the backdrop of a country that is still dealing with the after-effects of war.” -Ms. Clinton
She highlighted that the most wonderful thing for her is to see all of the children and young people in the Embassy.
“I am so happy that this is now a family post and that your families can be here with you and experience the culture and learn about the history of this country and the region.” -Ms. Clinton
