Official Speeches and Remarks by Ambassador Anne E. Derse

US Ambassador’s remarks at the Azerbaijan Youth Fund Committee

May 4, 2008

Dear ladies and gentlemen, and members of the Azerbaijan Youth Fund Committee, I would like to greet all of you on behalf of the United States Government in Azerbaijan.  I am pleased to join you today to discuss youth engagement issues and to learn more about your work. 

Thank you for this invitation to your meeting, especially to the young people who traveled several hours from distant regions to be here today. 

I believe that the Azerbaijan Youth Fund Committees showcase some top-notch examples of intelligent and ambitious young people from all over the country.  Your work is truly inspirational.  You are setting an example for all Azerbaijani people in your communities, old and young alike, on how a dedicated group of individuals can see a problem and work together to resolve it.  The skills learned through these projects, such as leadership, planning, organizational and financial management, and community relationship building will be useful to you for the rest of your lives.  

I see that Azerbaijan Youth Fund works in close cooperation with American organizations, including USAID, the Peace Corps and different US programs and activities.  These organizations are extremely committed to continuing to support Azerbaijan’s youth.  On behalf of the American people, I am pleased to join you today for this important meeting and to meet such vibrant and enthusiastic youth.

I would also like to thank Eurasia Partnership Foundation, its local   staff, all donor and partner organizations supporting the Azerbaijan Youth Fund program for their dedication and commitment to work with the young generation in Azerbaijan.  

I look forward to hearing your frank and constructive comments during this discussion and wish you luck and success in your work!