AMBASSADOR GALT: Governor Galsandondog, library staff, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon.
I am delighted to be in Khovd to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the American Cultural and Information Center.
This event coincides, as many of you know, with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and Mongolia.
Governor Galsandondog, I am pleased that the aimag government has been such a strong supporter of this center over the last 10 years. Thank you.
I also want to thank the Khovd Public Library director and staff, Ms. Erdenetuya, Ms. Altantsetseg, and Ms. Bayaraa, for their hard work to keep this center running at full steam, with a robust set of programs. Your dedication has made this day possible.
The U.S. Embassy is proud to have supported the American Cultural and Information Center in Khovd for the last decade.
Our Public Affairs Section has been a tremendous resource, as have the many valuable Peace Corps volunteers who have offered conversation classes and supported the center’s programs and their participants in countless ways.
American Spaces like this one play a valuable role in establishing close ties between the peoples of our two countries.
They offer the public a range of educational and informational services, including English language learning resources and information about study opportunities in the United States.
They also host open events and activities related to American history, politics, culture, and society.
Without shared knowledge and understanding of each other, our Embassy’s work would not be possible.
It is good to know that for the last ten years, in one of Mongolia’s westernmost provinces, this center has advanced the important work of building enduring bonds of friendship between our two peoples.
I am happy to announce that the U.S. Government will continue to support the American Cultural and Information Center in Khovd by funding the purchase of new books, expanding internet connectivity, and helping to establish creative and innovative programs to support young people in achieving their goals.
This year we are also planning to introduce brand new “Maker Space” programs that allow local artists, designers, students, and engineers to share ideas, collaborate, and create prototypes and designs for projects that can boost the local economy by helping citizens start their own businesses, develop their artistic abilities, and enhance their skill sets.
As the United States and Mongolia celebrate three decades of bilateral partnership this year, I am delighted that this American Center so clearly reflects our friendship and continues to promote such strong people-to-people ties.
Thank you.
