Statement from U.S. Ambassador Aldona Z. Wos
14:36, 4. detsember 2006
04.12.2006


"It is with mixed emotions that I announce the completion of my
assignment as the U.S. Ambassador to Estonia. I have had a wonderful
experience representing the United States here in the beautiful
country of Estonia. Over the past couple of years, I've met with many
amazing people who have helped make Estonia a model for other
countries around the world. The time has come, however, for me to go
home and reunite my family. 


"During my tenure as U.S. Ambassador, I have accomplished everything
that I set out to do. First and foremost, I have worked to improve
the outstanding U.S.-Estonian relationship which culminated in
President Bush's recent successful visit to Tallinn. I've also worked
hard to promote the issues of integration and tolerance through
conferences, seminars, film, and sporting events such as a basketball
game with Estonian and Russian-Estonian students from Kuristiku
Gymnasium and neighboring schools in Lasnamae that will take place
next week. As a medical doctor, I'm also particularly proud of the
work that the U.S. Embassy had done to promote HIV/AIDS awareness and
fight the spread of this disease in Estonia. I have also worked
together with the Estonian Government to explain the threat posed by
Human Trafficking. As the U.S. Ambassador, I have taken every
opportunity to explain what America is, who Americans are, and how
Estonians and Americans are alike -- from repeatedly encouraging more
Estonians to study in the United States to launching our new website
for young Estonians (see: http://estonia.usembassy.gov/youth/firstpage.php ). 
As President Bush pointed out during his recent visit, the United States and
Estonia share the same fundamental values: a love of freedom and
democracy.


"While in Estonia, I've had the chance to visit all fifteen counties
and speak to thousands of different Estonians. I'm particularly proud
of the fact that my staff and I have visited over 100 high schools
across Estonia. In speaking to these young people who represent
Estonia's next generation, I am confident that Estonia is in good
hands and will continue to thrive within the European Union, NATO,
and the larger world community."


Tuisk, Mairis
TuiskM@state.gov