September 2, 2004
Delivered to President of the Republic of Estonia Arnold Rüütel,
at Kadriorg

Credentials Statement of Ambassador Aldona Z. Wos

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is a deep and significant honor for me to stand before you today and present you with my credentials. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to serve the country I love by representing it in a country that I greatly admire.

Thanks to Estonia and America's shared values, such as commitment to democracy, respect for the law, embrace of the free market, I am starting my work here based on a relationship that is already excellent.

There were many who came before me, Estonians and Americans, who helped make this relationship what it is. I thank them all. I especially thank you, Mr. President, for leading Estonia during a period when Estonia's contribution to our partnership became more valuable than ever. In combat and in peace, Estonia, under your presidency, has shown itself to be one of America's staunchest allies and one of our best friends. A new U.S. Ambassador simply could not ask for a better partner. I will work with you, Sir, to maintain and deepen this strong relationship.

Americans marvel at Estonia's dramatic transformation from a captive nation that suffered horribly under Soviet occupation to one of Europe's brightest stars, all within a remarkably short thirteen years. During your tenure as President of the Republic, Estonia secured membership in the European Union and in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. We Americans welcomed your accession to these two organizations with great satisfaction. These memberships signify to us that Estonia has firmly and permanently reclaimed its rightful place in Europe and in the western community of nations.

Now at the dawn of my tenure as Ambassador, it is time to look ahead in our relationship. Membership in the European Union and in NATO brings new complexity, new meaning, and new opportunities to our relationship. We enjoy close cooperation in defense and security. I will work to ensure that the United States continues to do its utmost to help Estonia maintain the means to defend itself. The United States will also strive to ensure that Estonia can take part in international security operations to bring peace, stability, and justice where they are needed.

Just as important Mr. President, there is considerable trade potential between the United States and Estonia. I intend to work to maximize this potential. The benefits of an expanded trade and investment relationship will reach every corner of both our countries.

I referred earlier to our shared values. Even with these values, there is still so much for the peoples of our two countries to learn about one another. I see this as an important part of my mission Mr. President. I'll work hard to bring Americans -- politicians, business figures, artists and scholars -- here to your country. I'll seize opportunities for leading Estonians to visit my country: to learn more about the United States, and to spread the word about Estonia's remarkable successes among Americans. Let us pledge to work together to deepen our countries' mutual understanding.

Upon presentation of these credentials, I will be Ambassador to all of Estonia. Mr. President, I want to travel to all corners of your country. I plan to meet Estonians from all walks of life. I hope to hear their stories, and learn their concerns. And, I want to share with them the story of my country. This is so important in building understanding.

Mr. President, the people of Estonia have been so welcoming to my family and me during my first days here. I know we will grow to love Estonia as we come to know your country more deeply. I look forward to a productive tenure here. I hope to help bring our strong foundation and close relationship to new levels of mutual understanding, shared benefits, and sustained success.

Thank you for your attention.