The United States Embassy’s recent meeting with representatives of the Hungarian judiciary is consistent with the normal conduct of diplomacy by the United States and other countries – including Hungary – around the world.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 3 November, 2022 | Topics: Ambassador, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Press Releases, U.S. & Hungary
On October 27th, 2020, Prime Minister Viktor Orban presented the Hungarian Order of Merit, Middle Cross with the Star to Ambassador Cornstein for his role in strengthening Hungarian-U.S. diplomatic, economic & trade relations.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 28 October, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
Szabadság tér, Budapest Tuesday, October 27, 2020 Thank you, Mister Prime Minister. Thank you, Ministers, dignitaries, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen for being here today. It’s an honor to be here with you all today on this historic occasion. Mister Prime Minister, it may feel familiar for you to be on this square to inaugurate a …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 27 October, 2020 | Topics: Culture, Events, Exclude, Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, News, Speeches, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador Cornstein has begun his farewell interviews. See what he had to say about being ambassador, the U.S.-Hungarian relationship, energy, the military, and more, to Klubrádió , Népszava , Mandiner.hu, Index , Blikk , M1 , Magyar Nemzet , and ATV .
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 October, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
September 15, 2020 It was with a deep sense of pride, as well as some sadness, that I informed President Trump and Foreign Minister Szijjarto that I will be stepping down as U.S. Ambassador to Hungary on November 1. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the country that I love in …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 15 September, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News
August 12, 2020 U.S. Ambassador David Cornstein today joined Minister of Defense Tibor Benkő in announcing Hungary’s declaration of intent to conclude its largest-ever defense procurement from the United States, an action which will overhaul and modernize Hungary’s air defense capabilities and allow it to transition away from its current legacy Soviet system. This purchase …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 August, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Military Cooperation, News, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: Military cooperation
July 31, 2020 One of the most important things in life is knowing who your friends are and whom you trust. As a successful businessman I often look to numbers, and polling around the world shows that people don’t trust what the Chinese Communist Party has to say. But as a life-long New Yorker I …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 31 July, 2020 | Topics: Europe & Eurasia, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador Cornstein has discussed his perspective on the pandemic, our bilateral relationship, the media, and more, over the past week with ATV , M1 , and Hetek (coming next week).
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 24 July, 2020 | Topics: Europe & Eurasia, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
View our virtual Independence Day celebration!
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 6 July, 2020 | Topics: Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, U.S. & Hungary, Video | Tags: 4th of July, Fourth of July, Independence Day
Here in Budapest, we support the rights of those who gathered peacefully in front of our Embassy today to protest against racism, and we stand fully with the message that racism has no place in our world.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 7 June, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Human Rights, News
May 22, 2020 We live in unprecedented times. In a few short months, much of what we had thought of as normal has changed dramatically. One thing that should not change in times of crisis, however, is your friends. As a NATO Ally, the United States stands as strongly as ever with Hungary. I am …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 24 May, 2020 | Topics: Europe & Eurasia, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador David B. Cornstein’s remarks at the Mindszenty memorial conference and book launch, October 16, 2019.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 7 November, 2019 | Topics: Art & Culture, Culture, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, News, Speeches, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: Mindszenty
Ambassador Cornstein participated in a ceremony honoring Major General Bandholtz.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 29 October, 2019 | Topics: Chargé d’Affaires, Deputy Chief of Mission, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: Major General Harry Hill Bandholtz
Ambassador Cornstein and the U.S. Embassy welcomed a delegation of eight Members of Congress to Hungary July 1-3, 2019.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 8 July, 2019 | Topics: Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: Congressional Delegation, U.S.-Hungary relations
Ambassador Cornstein’s Statement Following Parliament’s Final Approval of Legislation to Ratify the New Defense Cooperation Agreement between the United States and Hungary
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 2 July, 2019 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Military Cooperation, News, Press Releases, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: Defense cooperation, Defense Cooperation Agreement, Military cooperation
Ambassador David B. Cornstein travelled to Washington DC this week to lead a delegation of Hungarian business leaders to the SelectUSA Investment Summit.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 June, 2019 | Topics: Commercial Affairs, Doing Business in the U.S., Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Press Releases, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador David Cornstein joined Cardinal Péter Erdő and others honoring the anniversary of the passing of Archbishop József Mindszenty in Esztergom on May 4.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 5 May, 2019 | Topics: Culture, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: Mindszenty
Ambassador Cornstein was delighted to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of the foundation of McDaniel College’s Budapest Campus on April 26, 2019.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 29 April, 2019 | Topics: Education, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Scholarships and Exchanges, Study in the U.S., U.S. & Hungary
“I commend Foreign Minister Szijjártó and the Hungarian government for signing the Defense Cooperation Agreement today on the margins of the Meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers in Washington, DC.”
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 4 April, 2019 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Military Cooperation, News, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: NATO
Ambassador Cornstein Visits Israel; Welcomes Hungary’s Extension of Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem through Opening of Diplomatic Trade Mission March 18, 2019 Ambassador David Cornstein is traveling today to Israel on the occasion of the opening of Hungary’s new trade mission in Jerusalem. He will join Foreign Minister Szijjártó in the official opening ceremony …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 18 March, 2019 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Press Releases
Ambassador David B. Cornstein had a wonderful and informative visit to the city on December 18, 2018.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 December, 2018 | Topics: Commercial Affairs, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News
Like any long-term relationship, we’ve had our ups and downs, but also like in any other healthy relationship, we’ve overcome those differences and emerged stronger and closer through honest and respectful dialogue.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 13 December, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Speeches, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador David B. Cornstein visited Coca-Cola Hungary where he was greeted by its local management.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 November, 2018 | Topics: Business, Commercial Affairs, Former U.S. Ambassadors
During his visit, Secretary Perry met with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and discussed multiple topics.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 14 November, 2018 | Topics: Economic Issues, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Key Officials, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: energy
“It is with great sadness that I offer my condolences and respect for the victims of the shooting perpetrated at The Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 29 October, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Press Releases
“CEU remains a priority for the U.S. Government and has overwhelming bipartisan support in the United States.”
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 25 October, 2018 | Topics: Education, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Press Releases, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: Central European University, CEU
Ambassador Cornstein made his first visit to Pápa Air Base on October 11, 2018.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 October, 2018 | Topics: Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Military Cooperation, News, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador Cornstein met with Mayor Botka, and visited the American Corner and the New Synagogue.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 October, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
Ambassador Cornstein spoke about the “American Dream” before an enthusiastic student crowd at the Central European University (CEU).
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 11 October, 2018 | Topics: Education, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Speeches | Tags: CEU
Drawing from his deep experience as a private business man, Ambassador Cornstein highlighted key differences between American and European norms of business.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 5 October, 2018 | Topics: Business, Commercial Affairs, Doing Business in the U.S., Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors | Tags: AmCham
Ambassador Cornstein met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban on the evening of September 10.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 10 September, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, U.S. & Hungary
In this video, Ambassador Cornstein, a native New Yorker, shares some personal reflections on the tragedy, honors the victims and the brave first responders, and invites all to participate in our 911 Blood Drive.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 10 September, 2018 | Topics: Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: 9/11, blood drive
As customary diplomatic protocol in Hungary, new Embassy Chiefs of Mission place a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Budapest’s Heroes’ Square. On September 5, Ambassador David B. Cornstein was honored to place a memorial wreath on the Tomb in the name of the people of the United States of America. Several Embassy …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 6 September, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News
Ambassador Cornstein was happy to participate in the American Chamber of Commerce in Hungary’s annual Ambassadorial Business Forum.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 5 September, 2018 | Topics: Commercial Affairs, Doing Business in the U.S., Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Speeches | Tags: AmCham
These exercises help our Soldiers build their readiness while illustrating the commitment of the United States to our NATO ally and partner Hungary, and are also vital opportunities to demonstrate our shared commitments to peace, security, and stability in Europe.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 6 August, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Military Cooperation, News, U.S. & Hungary | Tags: NATO
The U.S.-Hungary economic relationship remains a core pillar of our bilateral relationship, and Ambassador Cornstein and our Embassy staff look forward to continuing to strengthen this connection.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 26 July, 2018 | Topics: Business, Commercial Affairs, Doing Business in the U.S., Former U.S. Ambassadors
ILEA training focuses on several areas, including anti-corruption, cyber-enabled crime, countering violent extremism, and all forms of transnational organized crime, such as the trafficking of narcotics, humans, and wildlife.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 25 July, 2018 | Topics: Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: ILEA, International Law Enforcement Academy
On his first official trip outside Budapest, Ambassador David B. Cornstein visited the fascinating and beautiful blue and gold city of Debrecen.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 July, 2018 | Topics: American Spaces, Commercial Affairs, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: Debercen
This is a very, very important day for every American. It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor, if you’re white, brown, black. It doesn’t matter if you are a first-year immigrant into our country or if you’re a fourth generation. This is a day that we celebrate our freedom and it’s very, very important.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 6 July, 2018 | Topics: Culture, Events, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News, Speeches | Tags: Independence Day
Today, Central European University (CEU) President and Rector Michael Ignatieff welcomed Ambassador David B. Cornstein to the university. “I was pleased with the opportunity to visit CEU today and meet some of the very talented faculty and students. It’s an impressive academic institution and an asset to both Hungary and the United States. I support its continued operation …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 28 June, 2018 | Topics: Art & Culture, Education, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: Central European University
Ambassador David Cornstein and Mrs. Sheila Cornstein were greeted by Deputy Chief of Mission David Kostelancik and senior Embassy diplomats at the Liszt Ferenc Airport.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 23 June, 2018 | Topics: Deputy Chief of Mission, Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: Ambassador Cornstein
June 12, 2018 The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce that President Trump’s Ambassador to Hungary, David B. Cornstein, will arrive in Budapest on June 22, 2018. Ambassador Cornstein is excited to begin his work in Hungary and further strengthen the U.S. – Hungary relationship. Stay tuned for more information about Ambassador Cornstein in the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 June, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News | Tags: Ambassador Cornstein
From presidential nomination to the Embassy: On May 9, Mr. David B. Cornstein, President Trump’s nominee as U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, had his hearing before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. You can read his Statement here: http://ow.ly/eEKm30jVpGG (PDF file). What comes next? Our Prezi explains the steps presidential nominees have to take until they become …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 10 May, 2018 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, News
The theme for this year’s Day of Persons with Disabilities focuses on building a more inclusive and equitable world for persons with disabilities while addressing 17 Sustainable Development Goals that aim to eliminate poverty, fight inequality of any kind, and tackle climate change.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 26 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
I am delighted to present the 7th annual Nancy Brinker Prize to Dr. Róbert Maráz on behalf of Ambassador Bell.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Deputy Chief of Mission, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Health Issues, Speeches
During tonight’s concert, we celebrate those “barometers of freedom” – the Hungarian jazz musicians who played their music in 1956 in defiance of the Communist government. And we remember all of the Hungarians who suffered and those who died in the fight for democracy 60 years ago.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Art & Culture, Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, Speeches | Tags: culture, history, music
Tonight, we are here to celebrate Americans going to the polls, exercising the simple, but extraordinary, right to vote. As many of you know, the U.S. Constitution provides for presidential elections every four years and establishes the basis for our representative democracy.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Elections, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches | Tags: Ambassador, Election
As some of you may know, this Partnership, first founded in 2005-2006, is the first of its kind and is designed to build and strengthen the relationships between the United States, Hungary, and Central Europe.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 21 October, 2016 | Topics: Education, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
It is a great pleasure to join you today for the unveiling of statues of two great thinkers and authors, Hannah Arendt and Zbigniew Herbert. In their works, both reflect on their survival through turmoil and war. And their accomplishments and writings continue to inspire discussion and debate today.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 October, 2016 | Topics: Culture, Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, Speeches | Tags: 1956
That is why we are here today- to honor those very brave men and women who sixty years ago, attempted to throw off the yoke of communism. Today, in a free Hungary, in the United States, and in many other places around the world, we honor their memory and sacrifices.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 October, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, Speeches | Tags: 1956
But it’s not only about making products, making money, and employment. Alcoa is also a leader in corporate responsibility, which is near and dear to my heart, and is something in which American companies excel.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 September, 2016 | Topics: Business, Commercial Affairs, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
This is the third year in a row for the festival in Budapest, and it’s great to see how it brings together experienced and amateur filmmakers to tell stories inspired by their own experiences and their hometowns. I
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 19 September, 2016 | Topics: Art & Culture, Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
As I look at this exhibition, it strikes me just how powerful it is that it is on a train car. You can actually feel the history – the terror and despair – in the physical object itself, in the wooden planks in the floor, the sliding doors, and the wheels on the track. The …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 September, 2016 | Topics: Art & Culture, Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, Speeches | Tags: Holocaust
It is those heroes we remember and honor today. First responders truly represent the best of humanity, and it is their example that must continue to inspire us all.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 11 September, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches | Tags: 9/11
I recognize and commend the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who serve as first responders in Hungary — firefighters and paramedics alike.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 9 September, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches | Tags: 9/11
In today’s world, cancer has a major impact on so many people and families in the United States and across the world. Too many of us personally know someone affected by cancer – whether we witness the fight of a loved one directly or we see the worry of their family and friends.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 9 September, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Health Issues, Speeches
Fighting corruption is notoriously difficult, it requires a long term commitment, and success is often hard to measure. Events like these raise awareness to the importance of combatting corruption, and the studies that you conduct teach us how we can better direct our efforts.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 August, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
The treatment and integration of the Roma population here and throughout Europe is another example of a serious challenge we face today. Two days ago I spoke at the Roma History and Culture Center to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of the Roma Holocaust – the Parrajmos.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 4 August, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, History, Speeches | Tags: Holocaust
Hungarian Gripens, Czech Gripens, Slovenian PC-9s, Slovakian MiG 29s, and a United States KC-135 and C-130, as well as tactical ground controllers from all five nations, are conducting the largest and most complicated air integration mission in the region since the end of the Balkan operations.
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 27 July, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
– as prepared – Good afternoon and welcome, everyone. It is a tremendous honor for me to host you in this celebration of America’s 240th anniversary of our independence. Welcome, Minister Pinter, President Darak, and Prosecutor Polt, Justice Stumpf. Thank you State Secretary Vargha for coming and I look forward to your remarks. Welcome, distinguished …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 1 July, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel Gősi, for your kind introduction. Minister Pintér, Ambassadors, Colonel Farkas, Director Terpinas, honored guests, and most of all, ILEA Session 103 Graduates, I am so pleased to be here to celebrate your accomplishments. From the perspective of the United States Government, and specifically from the U.S. State Department, I can’t emphasize enough …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 24 June, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good evening and welcome to the Women Start-Up Competition. I would like to thank the organizers of this event, GF Social Media, for inviting me to participate. I am delighted to sit with such a distinguished group of jurors from the technology and investment communities. I am sure we will learn here tonight about innovative …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 4 June, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
President Shattuck, Professor Balazs, fellow diplomats, distinguished guests, thank you. I’m happy to be here as part of your important lecture series. It’s always a pleasure to be in the lively community of CEU. Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you. I know very well the role that CEU plays in providing a …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 May, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Professor Bodis, Mr. Giran, Ms. Bartos, Ambassador Helfand, Professor Fischer, Dr. Taróssy, Dr. Brückner, Ladies and Gentlemen, Jó napot! Good morning! I am delighted to be here with you today to celebrate this special occasion — the 11th Biennial Conference of the Hungarian Association for American Studies in association with the Hungarian Association for Ibero-American …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 May, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Chairman Nemeth, Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee, distinguished guests, thank you for asking me to speak to you. It is an honor. Our custom of talking together today is as old as our friendship as nations. I look forward to a frank and friendly discussion with you and the distinguished members of this Committee. …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 5 May, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good Morning! I am very pleased to have the opportunity to visit Balaton-felvidéki National Park to help celebrate Earth Day this week. I would like to thank Director Puskás, and his colleagues at the National Park Directorate for welcoming us and organizing a great visit for me and the U.S. delegation. We are excited to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 April, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
State Secretary Laszlo Palkovics, esteemed members of the panel, ladies and gentleman, Good afternoon! It is my great pleasure to join you here to observe International Roma Day. Since 1990, this day has been set aside as an opportunity to celebrate Romani culture and raise awareness of the issues and daily challenges facing the largest …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 8 April, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you to Mr. Bolek and the Hungarian Islamic Community for hosting today’s celebration. Mr. Bolek, distinguished guests, Assalamu alaykum [“Peace be with you” in Arabic; standard Muslim greeting worldwide]. We celebrate today a century of Islam’s legal recognized existence in Hungary, though the actual existence of Islam in the territory of Hungary dates back …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 30 March, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Mayor Péter Fenyves, Member of Parliament Gábor Törő, Ambassador András Dékány of the Ministry of Human Capacities, Principal Krisztina Birkás, Teachers and Staff, Students, Jó napot kívánok! Good morning! Thank you very much for the invitation to join you today and for the very warm welcome to Mór! Since 2008, the Ministry of Human Capacities …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 23 March, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Ambassador Shakir Fakili, President Gabor Komlosi, Honorary President Eva Keleti, Vice President Maria Gonczi, Vice President Janos Harshegyi, Mr. Andras Trom, dear awardees, members of MUOSZ, ladies and gentlemen: It is a great honor to be here today, and to join you as you present the Golden Pen awards to some of the many courageous …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 10 March, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you, Madame Chairwoman, Model UN delegates, and distinguished guests. It is an honor to be here and I am delighted to speak with you today. I’d like to welcome the delegates from the United States, and also from Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Serbia, and Germany. Congratulations to Karinthy High School for hosting such an excellent …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 10 March, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Minister Pintér, Rector Pátyi, President Shank, Ambassador Szemerkényi, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good morning! Jó reggelt kívánok! Thank you very much for the invitation to join you today and participate in this morning’s ceremony! I am honored to witness the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Marymount University and the National University of Public Service. …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 7 March, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Hello everyone. I’m Colleen Bell, United States Ambassador to Hungary. I would like to welcome you and thank you for coming. I am so pleased you could join us tonight to watch this important and powerful film — Winter on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom. This film screening is a highlight of the work of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 23 February, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Jó estét kívánok! Good evening everyone! I am pleased to join you tonight and to introduce the film you are about to see — Hot Men, Cold Dictatorships — which we are screening in honor of LGBT History Month. I congratulate the Háttér Society and their partners for organizing such a varied and interesting series …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 22 February, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
If we speak the language of your original profession, that is, being a producer, how would you summarize the first season of your time as Ambassador for those who will also be following the second season? Every good television series has exciting and quiet parts, tense and peaceful moments. I’ve had all those in my first …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 10 February, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
I would like to welcome each of you equally as guests, faith leaders, and friends, to my home. As you may know, there is a tradition in the United States of the President meeting with religious leaders on the first Thursday of every February. This has happened every year since 1953. It is such an …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 4 February, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Distinguished guests, Mayor Borbely , Deputy State Secretaries Langerne and Latorcai, esteemed diplomatic colleagues, and friends, welcome, and thank you for joining me this afternoon to pay tribute to the victims and the legacy of the Parrajmos. And to Istvan Makai and the Roma Civic Association, thank you for inviting me to participate in this …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 1 February, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good afternoon, everybody! Thank you, Dr. Aáry-Tamás and Professor Szuromi for your excellent welcome remarks and words of inspiration to start this year’s RETURN conference. I would also like to thank Ms. Smith Lacey – Anna — for moderating today’s event. It is my great pleasure to be here again, and I thank the U.S. …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 30 January, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you, Jozsef and Transparency International, for inviting me to speak at this important event. I commend you and your colleagues on your tireless work to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. Your efforts make a difference in Hungary and around the world. It was on this day in 2003, in Merida, Mexico, that the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 9 December, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you, Mr. Siklosi, General Orosz, General Vollmecke, General Safar, and Colonel Gangler, and men and women of Papa Air Base and the 74th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron. I’m honored to be here at Papa today to celebrate the growing cooperation between NATO Allies. Even before 1999, when Hungary and the U.S. became Allies, our two …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 2 December, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
From rising seas across the globe and the melting of Greenland’s sheet ice to the bleaching of coral reefs around many coasts, the signs of climate change are all around us. As a global society, we are at a critical juncture where our decisions today will help shape the climate our children and children’s children …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 2 December, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you very much Vice Rector Görög for the kind introduction and to Corvinus University, the organizer and host of this event. And to my diplomatic corps colleagues; representatives of the Government of Hungary; Corvinus administrators, academics, and students; business leaders; friends from the American Corner; ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for coming. I …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 28 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
– as delivered – Jó napot kívánok! Good Morning! I am delighted to be here and I would like to give thanks, a very special thank you to Minister Fazekas for the invitation to join you all here today. I would also like to congratulate the organizers of this wonderful event, which helps maintain cultural …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 24 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
This exercise is a great example of multilateral cooperation that ensures our nations’ militaries are better able to operate together as NATO Allies. Interoperability is vital to our success. Our militaries have been learning, training, and fighting together as NATO allies for more than 15 years. The NATO alliance is an enduring commitment – not …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 21 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Jó napot kivánok/Good afternoon. To start, I want to thank the Hungarian Association of Women Judges for hosting this event today and providing a forum for today’s presentation by the visiting speaker for the U.S. Department of State, Lieutenant Scott Jenkins, a retired U.S. police officer and expert in the prevention and prosecution of domestic …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
(as prepared) Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Rector Patyi, Professor Vizi, Minister Simicsko, dear colleagues, students and friends. It is my great pleasure to be here with you today, and to address this conference on the significance of “transatlantic thought”. It is also a great pleasure to share this panel with Minister Simicsko, and, through …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 13 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good afternoon, It was a great pleasure to experience this wonderful program by the Rolling Chairs dance troupe. Many thanks to Ms. Rita Sárai and the entire company for such a beautiful performance! I am so glad that so many honored guests could join us today for this presentation, including Mr. Pál Szekeres, Mayor Ferenc …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you. Good evening, everyone. I would like to thank the organizers at the Antall Jozsef Knowledge Center for the invitation to speak with you tonight. It is my great pleasure to be here, addressing many of Hungary’s brightest young leaders. While this is my first opportunity to speak with many of you, it is …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 1 October, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
When you accepted President Obama’s nomination as United States ambassador to Hungary, were you expecting to land in such a turbulent scene? When I received the call from the White House that I had been nominated to serve as U.S. ambassador, I was extremely excited by the opportunity. I had travelled to Hungary before, and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 30 September, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you Dr. Nemescsói, for your kind introduction, and thank you Ferenc for the invitation to speak at this event. I am also delighted to share the stage with Minister of Justice Trócsányi. Minister Trócsányi, panelists, and American Chamber of Commerce members, good morning. AmCham’s efforts have been an essential component to the growth of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 30 September, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Ladies and Gentlemen, On behalf of the United States Government, I am very pleased to welcome you to the International Law Enforcement Academy in Budapest. The mission of ILEA is to support the region’s emerging democracies through international cooperation to combat crime and to promote social, political and economic stability. To achieve these goals, ILEA …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 28 September, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your invitation and your warm welcome. It is a great honor to be here with you today, and to be celebrating Women’s Equality Day with you. Since it was first celebrated in 1972, Women’s Equality Day celebrates the date, ninety five years ago today, when the 19th Amendment to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 26 August, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Jó napot kívánok! Thank you very much, Deputy State Secretary Krisztina Berta, for your kind invitation to join this event. I would also like to thank the media representatives for attending today. Your reporting greatly helps us raise public awareness. And raising awareness – as Ms. Berta already made clear – is critical in preventing …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 13 August, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Law Enforcement Leadership Development Session 100 Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel Gősi, for your kind introduction. Minister Pintér, Ambassador Brownfield, Ambassador Esmerov, Ambassador Benisheva, Colonel Farkas, Mr. Barnett, Director Terpinas, honored guests, and most of all, ILEA Session 100 Graduates, I am so pleased to be here to celebrate your accomplishments. From the perspective of the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 July, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good evening. Minister Pintér, Ambassadors, distinguished guests, ILEA Directors and staff and ILEA Session 100 graduates; I am so pleased to be here with you tonight to celebrate both the ILEA 20 year anniversary and the graduation of ILEA Session 100. It was an honor to be with Session 100 this afternoon as they became …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 July, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
The beautiful city of Szeged has welcomed me today, and shown me its extraordinary culture, its vibrant business community, its historic synagogue, and its marvelous university. I have also met some of Szeged’s people, who are extremely hospitable — I thank you all for your generosity in welcoming me to your city, and inviting me …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 25 June, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good morning everyone and thank you for coming. I am pleased to be here with such distinguished guests for what promises to be a vibrant discussion on Ukraine and the ramifications of the crisis – for Ukrainians, and for all of us. Before we get started, I wanted to thank everyone who made this event …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 18 June, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Hello everyone. I’m pleased to be here with this impressive group of business leaders, academics, government officials, and community organizers – each of you dedicated to enhancing and expanding relations between Hungary and the United States. First of all, Chris: thank you for the invitation to be here today. Your work and the work of …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 June, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
I’d like to begin by thanking Rector Shattuck and Anna-Mária Biró for organizing this event and the conference last year, and to thank Dr. Pető and Prof. Thorson for editing and bringing this book into being, and to all of you for keeping this important issue of Holocaust Memorialization alive and open for discussion. Keeping …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 21 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Hello everybody, good afternoon. I am so delighted to be here at the end-of-semester ceremony – I certainly feel and share all of your excitement today, you should feel so proud of what you have accomplished. First of all, I extend my sincere thanks to Mr. Bojár for his invitation to visit Graphisoft Park and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Dennis, Chris, Thunderbird Alumni, ladies and gentlemen. Good morning. It is a great pleasure to kick off this European Reunion of Thunderbird Alumni . When your fellow alumnus Edward invited me to address your group, I was very pleased. During my business career, I developed relationships with partners from many countries. And along the way, I met …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 16 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good evening. I’m so happy to participate in another Fulbright event – this time to bid farewell to the American Fulbright grantees who are completing their year in Hungary and to celebrate their marvelous academic achievements. This event is also an occasion to extend best wishes to the departing Hungarian grantees whose Fulbright experience is about …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 15 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good morning, everyone. I’m so delighted to be here, and thank you, Mr. Csaba (Chairman of the Board of AFS Hungary), for your kind invitation. Let me first congratulate all of you on the centennial anniversary of your organization, American Field Service , and on the 25th anniversary of your chapter in Hungary. You have a history to …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 15 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
The development of the Hungarian Special Forces has been remarkable. Hungary started with no Special Forces in 2005, and by 2013 was able to provide command and control for special operations from 5 different nations – including the U.S. – who were conducting important operations across 4 regions within Afghanistan. Hungarian Special Forces have served …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 8 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good evening, everyone. I am very pleased to be here with you tonight for a very special concert and I would like to thank the organizers – Harmony Foundation and the Fulbright Commission and, personally, Rita Hoffmann and Maria Flamich for inviting us to be a part of it. What you are about to hear touches on …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 5 May, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Press Releases, Speeches
I want to begin by thanking Erika Sólyom, our capable coordinator here at the American Corner Budapest , as well as Corvinus University, for agreeing to host today’s meeting. Thanks also to Timea Tiboldi, for spending much of the past nine months helping to develop this course, and for now facilitating your class over the next 10 weeks. …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 28 April, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good morning. I am excited to be with you this morning. I would like to thank Gergő Lencsés, the General Manager, and his team at this GE facility for hosting us today. I am proud of the fact that GE is one of eight U.S. companies in Hungary hosting 400 young women today during the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 23 April, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Mr. Mayor, Dr. Matei, ladies and gentlemen: It is a pleasure to be here today to plant this Magnolia tree with the Mayor of the Fifth District and the Provost and Pro-Rector of Central European University to mark the 45th anniversary of Earth Day. The Embassy has been a part of the Fifth District community …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 20 April, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good afternoon, everyone. It is a great honor for me to participate in this moving reunion with you and your families – and to celebrate with the American liberators who set you free! I am so proud of our American soldiers! True heroes! I have read a great deal about the events of Friday, the …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 19 April, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Press Releases, Speeches
Thank you, Chairman Haraszti, for the invitation to attend this event and share with you the strong support of the United States and my own deep personal commitment to the important work of Holocaust remembrance. It is our profound duty to preserve the sacred memories of the victims of this most profoundly tragic episode in …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 16 April, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Press Releases, Speeches
Thank you very much, Aftab. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for the opportunity to speak with you. When I heard about this event, I jumped at the chance to talk to a group very important to me both personally and professionally – namely all the women leaders here today. It’s an honor to be …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 12 March, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good evening! I am so pleased to be here tonight and to welcome our distinguished guests – Nicole Taylor and Daniel Ernst. Ms. Taylor has established herself in the United States and internationally as an artist of extraordinary talent, with an extensive repertoire covering a vast variety of styles and genres. Her accompanist, Mr. Ernst, …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 25 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good morning. First of all, I would like to thank Mr. András F. Tóth for the opportunity to say a few words at the opening of this conference. I am particularly pleased to be here because volunteering and civic engagement have always been and still are a cornerstone of our nation. Americans strongly believe that …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 23 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Hello everyone, and welcome. I’m pleased you could join me for lunch. Chargé Yunger, my personal welcome to you, and my thanks for coming today. It is my first opportunity to meet you, and it is a privilege to host you and your colleague. And a warm welcome and thank you to all of my …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 17 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Madam Ambassador, Minister Martonyi, Mr. Pongrácz, Ms. Lippai-Nagy, Mr. Benkő, ladies and gentlemen. Good Afternoon. It is a great pleasure for me to attend this, my first AmCham Hungary event, made even more pleasant by the participation of my friend, Ambassador Szemerkényi. I understand it is quite rare to have both the U.S. Ambassador to Hungary and …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 11 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Good afternoon. Thank you, Minister Balog, for your kind welcome and hospitality today. It is my pleasure to be here – in such a beautiful setting – to sign this bilateral agreement to harmonize our social security systems. In addition, I would like to thank the members of the Hungarian government who worked so hard …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 3 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you, President Shattuck for your warm welcome and for your kind introduction. It is a pleasure to be here today at CEU, an institution at the heart of important research, teaching, and learning in Central Europe. The Embassy is proud to partner with CEU not just to organize this lecture, but also to support …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 2 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches | Tags: Ambassador Bell
Fellow ambassadors, Mayor Tóth, members of the Lantos family, ladies and gentlemen – good morning. It is a privilege to be here with you as we commemorate the birthday of Hungarian-American Congressman Tom Lantos. In his honor, we are gathered to name this street for him – a small change on the map, perhaps, but …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 1 February, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you very much, Dr. Szuromi and good afternoon, everyone. First of all, I would like to express my gratitude for the invitation to address this impressive forum. As a new Ambassador, I am anxious to learn more about Hungary, to better understand its culture and its challenges, and to see them through the eyes …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 31 January, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches | Tags: Ambassador Bell
Minister Szijjártó, Dr. Forgó, Mr. Randall, Mayor Cser-Palkovics, distinguished guests. It is a real pleasure for me to be here to inaugurate the expansion of the Hungarian facility of one of America’s most storied companies: Alcoa. It’s astounding to think that this company has been producing high-quality aluminum and light metal products for 125 years! …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 30 January, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches
Thank you, Under Secretary Kennedy, for presiding today, for your support and for your kind words. I appreciate your taking the time to be here with my family, friends and colleagues. It’s obvious why you command such respect in this building and around the world, from both Foreign Service Officers like yourself and political appointees …
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Budapest | 16 December, 2014 | Topics: Former U.S. Ambassadors, Speeches