Remarks As Prepared
Jó napot kívánok!
It is such a privilege to be back in this beautiful country, and an absolute honor to do so as the Ambassador of the United States of America to Hungary.
Decades ago, I landed at this very airport, on my first solo trip to Europe. I stayed with a Hungarian family, and ventured through Europe with Hungarian friends. In many ways, I was first introduced to Europe through Hungary.
This is an extraordinary country filled with some of the most talented people in the world. My 9 year-old son is a competitive speed-cuber; he has a particular affinity for one great Hungarian, Ernő Rubik.
And, honestly, our politics today can feel a bit like a Rubik’s cube. These are complicated times, and in complicated times it is more important than ever for friends to pull each other closer. The United States is a friend of Hungary and of the Hungarian people.
I realize there can be a lot of political noise, but this is an important moment in the region and in the world, and it is one we need each other to get right.
Our countries have worked together as allies on critical economic and security issues. Now, more than ever, our countries need to work together to ensure that the U.S.-Hungary partnership is vibrant, strong, and rooted in shared values.
I’m looking forward to working closely with the Hungarian government and to meeting as many Hungarians as I possibly can. My family and I thank you for the very warm welcome.
And while I continue to work on my Hungarian, let me conclude by saying:
Megtiszteltetés számomra, hogy itt lehetek. Köszönöm szépen!
