Remarks of Ambassador James F. Moriarty at the America Week Press Conference

December 8, 2009

Assalamu alaykum and good morning. I am pleased to be here in Rajshahi and to welcome members of the press to America Week. Just a few minutes ago, along with Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism Ghulam M. Quader and USAID Director Denise Rollins, I presided over the opening of what promises to be an exciting three days of programs and activities.

The theme for this America Week is “Community.” During America Week, visitors will see firsthand how the U.S. Government is working together with Bangladeshi partners to help local communities in Rajshahi. Visitors can learn more about the U.S. companies who are a vital part of the local business community. They can also learn more about how to travel to the United States for business, education or even immigration.

The United States and Bangladesh are partners in the global community as well. We work together closely on issues that affect the entire world, including climate change, food security and womens' empowerment. These issues are important to people in Rajshahi and Rhode Island; in Dhaka and Detroit. Together, we will work together to address these important challenges.

The world recognizes Bangladesh's contributions to our global community. President Obama, in his Cairo address to the Muslim world, praised Bangladesh for its work to empower women. Secretary Clinton echoed President Obama's comments following her meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Dipu Moni this past September. She remarked, “As a country with a strong secular and democratic heritage, a record of respect for women, and a Muslim majority population, Bangladesh embodies the promise that President Obama spoke of in Cairo.”

One area that continues to amaze me is the creativity and resilience of Bangladeshi local communities as they endeavor to find effective solutions to their own problems. I've seen this everywhere that I have traveled in this beautiful country. As exemplified by the women entrepreneurs who use micro credit to escape the bonds of poverty, this persistent resiliency leads to hope.

Since my arrival in Bangladesh last year, I have made it a priority to get out of Dhaka as often as possible. I am pleased that Embassy officials also regularly travel throughout the country to gain a better understanding of Bangladesh and its people.

What goes on outside Dhaka is just as important as the decisions taking place in Parliament or the Secretariat. Bangladesh's national development is the sum of development in all of constituent parts. For Bangladesh to move forward, Rajshahi must move forward. With its universities, Rajshahi can help foster creative and innovative ideas benefit the entire country. I hope that this America Week will help open a door of opportunity for many Rajshahi residents.

Bangladesh is an important friend and partner of the United States. We have a longstanding cordial relationship and have provided more than $5.5 billion U.S. dollars in development assistance since Bangladesh's independence. As Bangladesh moves to a trade, not aid, driven economy it is important to also note that the U.S. is Bangladesh's most important trading partner. In 2008 our bilateral trade exceeded $4.2 billion U.S. dollars. The livelihoods of millions of Bangladeshis depend on our close relationship. We want to deepen and strengthen this friendship and look forward to working with the Government of Bangladesh and the people of Bangladesh to this end.

I look forward to meeting members of the Rajshahi community to share experiences and strengthen our friendship.

Thank you.