October 20, 2015
My wife Catherine and I are pleased to welcome you to our home this evening.
We are happy to see a lot of old friends and some new ones as well here tonight.
Thank you to Full Spectrum, the Air Force Central Command band, based in Doha, for this evening’s great music.
They have several performances around town over the next week, which I hope you will all attend.
Tonight kicks off the Embassy’s third annual Discover America Week.
I’m proud to say that what we started here in Kuwait over the last couple years has spread to other parts of the region as well.
For the first time, Discover America Week is taking place in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman through the end of the month.
Once again, Kuwait is a regional trendsetter!
Our slogan this year is:
Discover America:
Quality.
Reliability.
Together.
I chose this slogan because it not only describes American products and services, but also the enduring relationship between the United States and Kuwait.
Quality
Because the United States is known for its superior products, technology, automobiles, education, music, culture, and service providers – all of which are enjoyed – and employed! – here in Kuwait.
Reliability
Because what is made in the United States lasts.
This is as true of American products and services as it is of the U.S.-Kuwait relationship.
As we prepare to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Kuwait’s liberation, we are reminded that, then as now, Kuwait has a reliable partner in the United States.
Together
Because through our business partnerships, which I see on full display here this evening, we strengthen the bonds of friendship and partnership that make the U.S.-Kuwait relationship unique in the region.
For Discover America Week here in Kuwait, we will have a number of events over the next ten days highlighting American culture, education, business, music, film, automobiles, fashion, food, and restaurants.
All of you are partners in this year’s event, but we would now like to highlight several key individuals and organizations without whom Discover America Week would not be possible.
I will now turn things over to Jeff Hamilton, our Commercial Counselor, who will introduce each of the partners.
When your name is called, please come to the stage to receive your certificate of appreciation.
Catherine and I wish you a great evening, and a great week “discovering” America.
Thank you.
Jeff, the microphone is yours.
