Külügyi Szemle - A Magyar Külügyi Intézet folyóirata - 2011 (10. évfolyam)
2011 / 3. szám - MAGYAR-AMERIKAI KAPCSOLATOK - Tsakopoulos Kounalakis, Eleni: Preface for the October 2011 Issue of Foreign Policy Review
Preface for the October 2011 Issue of Foreign Policy Review example of how a country of ten million people can do great things, or "punch above its weight," as we like to say. It is, of course, to be expected that we - the Embassy and the United States - would work with the Government of Hungary on any number of issues. On increasing regional energy security, resolving conflicts in the Western Balkans, strengthening regional law enforcement capacity, and a host of other areas, the U.S. and Hungary are productively cooperating. But to sustain close, productive relations between democracies, both countries must be strong and there must be mutual understanding between peoples. Therefore, as important as our work with the government is our engagement with civil society and private individuals. Numerous academic exchange programs have helped many Hungarians obtain a glimpse into American life and return to Hungary with new experiences and new knowledge. It is my hope that these exchange programs will continue to flourish and that with their help, Americans and Hungarians will continue to be able to learn about each other's societies and make a difference in their own. Equal opportunities and providing a level playing field for all, regardless of race, gender or political standing, are vital elements of a vibrant democracy and a healthy economy. As Secretary Clinton pointed out in her remarks in Parliament, the United States has been on its own democratic journey for somewhat longer than Hungary. When she expressed concern regarding the many changes that the government is making with its historic two-thirds majority, it was as a friend and out of a desire that Hungary continue to be a shining example for others looking to begin their own democratic journey. Sharing our best practices and our own knowledge collected during that journey is the best way for us to contribute to Hungary's successes. One area of special interest to me, perhaps stemming from my own family's experiences in the United States, is entrepreneurship: making it possible, easy and worthwhile for individuals to realize their goals in business. To that end, it is vital that bureaucratic hurdles be reduced to a minimum, red tape be cut and transparency and consistency be increase, so that individual initiatives may flourish. In this, not only the U.S. government, but American businesses also are ready to help. American businesses are not only good employers, and provide quality goods and services. They are also good citizens, contributing to their communities in countless ways. They can help instill the "can-do" attitude Americans are so proud of and that can easily be adopted and embraced by Hungarians. There is much to be proud of in the Hungarian-American relationship, and it is an exciting time to be representing the United States of America in Hungary. Eleni Tsakopoulos Kounalakis Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Hungary 2011. ősz 9
