Former U.S. Ambassador Heather M. Hodges Speeches

Arrival Statement of the U.S. Ambassador-Designate to the Republic of Moldova Heather M. Hodges

October 2, 2003

The U.S. Embassy in Chisinau is pleased to announce that U.S. Ambassador-Designate to the Republic of Moldova Heather M. Hodges arrived in Chisinau this afternoon. It is expected that Ms. Hodges will present her credentials to President Voronin during the first half of October. Upon her arrival Ms. Hodges released the following printed statement to the media:

I am very pleased to be in Moldova. I have looked forward so much to coming here, because I have heard many good things about this country and its wonderful people.

It is an honor and a privilege for me to be here as the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova. I intend to work hard to expand our already strong bilateral relations. The United States is especially grateful for the support Moldova has demonstrated in Iraq and in the war against terror.

I look forward to working with President Voronin, Prime Minister Tarlev and his Government, and Members of Parliament. The United States is committed to helping Moldova implement democratic and economic reforms, to supporting efforts to resolve the Transnistrian conflict, and to combating human trafficking.

I anticipate working closely with the citizens of Moldova in their efforts to consolidate democratic institutions. I want to support the efforts of civil society to better understand its role in a healthy democracy. I intend to encourage the freedom of expression in mass media, as well as religious and ethnic tolerance.

I look forward to visiting all parts of Moldova, which I understand is very beautiful. I am eager to meet people of this country and explore the culture and history of this rich land.