AMBASSADOR'S REMARKS AND PUBLIC EVENTS

Remarks by Ambassador Ross Wilson at the Reception in Honor of the 55th Anniversary of the Turkish-American Association

Ankara, Turkey - June 7, 2006

Welcome to this reception to mark the 55^th anniversary of the Turkish-American Association.  It is a pleasure and an honor for me to represent the government of the United States on this occasion and in this institution.  Thank you, Mr. Minister, for honoring us by being here and for representing the Turkish government at this important anniversary.

The Turkish-American Association was established in 1952 at the time that Turkey became a member of NATO.  In the same way that NATO has been a political and military anchor for Turkey, so the Turkish-American Association has served as a cultural anchor in the US-Turkish relationship.

Before the internet and global media, the Turkish-American Association was perhaps the key place for Turks to access far off America.  It was home to the American library here in Ankara.  It was a place to meet political and other public figures from my country.  It was and still is where many Turks learn English.

This association remains vital, active and important.  Its English teaching programs are the standard by which others are judged.  Its teachers’ resource library helps to advance the study of English throughout this country.  It is our partner in extending micro scholarships for underprivileged children to learn English.

I am told that if you get into a taxi anywhere in Ankara and say “Amerikan Kultur,” the driver will bring you right here.  This means people know and value what this institution is and what it represents.

As Ambassador, I certainly do.

I want to express my appreciation for all you do to Turkish-American Association President Bucukoglu, Executive Director Dilek Dengizek Ersanal, and all of the others around this room – both Americans and Turks – who have contributed so much of their time and effort to the success of this organization over the years.

At the end of the day, the relationship between our countries will only be as strong and dynamic as the ties between our people.  So I am happy and proud to support the work of this institution and pleased to celebrate here its 55^th anniversary.

Thank you very much.