Speeches

Farewell Remarks by Ambassador Price

June 16, 2005, 10:00 am
Le Suffren Hotel

Distinguished Guests;
Members of the Press Corps;
Ladies and Gentlemen:

Good Morning.

Thank you all for joining me today as I bid farewell to your beautiful island nation.  I have lived in Mauritius for more than three years, and I have learned so much about this country.  I am very proud of the work that I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of here.  I’d also like to point out that my wife Marcia Price is with me today.

I could not have hoped for a more fulfilling experience than the one I have had serving in Mauritius.  Your country often does not receive the recognition or applause that it deserves.  When we talk of the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-lingual society, or laud the foundations of your economy, or praise the important international role of Mauritius, we still do not do this country justice.  Mauritius is so much more.

This is most clearly demonstrated in the strength of the Mauritian democracy.  I’m certain the next elections will again be free, fair, transparent, and above all else democratic.  The Mauritian democracy is strong, and like its economy, solidly based.

Trade is another area in which Mauritius has earned worldwide renown.  In Washington, it was Mauritian diplomats who led the successful negotiations time and again for the African Growth and Opportunity Act.  At the global level, Minister Cuttaree has been a key player in the Doha negotiations.

The similarities between our two countries are strong and our ties are even stronger.  I am the latest in a long line of American representatives to serve here.  The first being William Macarty, who arrived in 1794, two hundred and eleven years ago.  The bilateral relationship between the United States and Mauritius is one of the longest in our history.  I am proud to have been a part of it.

The relations between the United States and Mauritius are excellent.  One need look no further than to note that President Bush welcomed Prime Ministers Jugnauth and Berenger to the Oval Office of the White House, within the space of 12 months.

Yet there is so much further we can go together and so much more work to get done.  Mauritius is a leader in the fight to bring democracy and stability to the region.  I am envious of the next U.S. Ambassador who will be chosen to follow me here.  This person will find a ready partner, a population that knows struggle and success and understands that freedom and democracy lead towards successful development and economic prosperity.

Let me cite just a few examples of our accomplishments during my tour here.  Working together, the Government modernized intellectual property rights law.  As a result, more companies are disposed towards doing business here, and this can only lead to further economic progress especially in light of your new Duty Free Island concept; and AGOA trade between the U.S. and Mauritius will also be expanded.  I would also like to see more American vacationers come here, further developing the links between our two countries.

The literacy rate in Mauritius is the highest in Africa.  The Embassy each year helps your brightest and best students with the opportunity to attend colleges and universities in the U.S., with many of them on scholarships.  Today, more than 300 Mauritian students are in the United States.  These young people will be among the future leaders of your country.  Mauritians are highly sought after students because of their aptitude and decency.  You can be exceedingly proud of these young people.

But I should note, although I’ve lived in Mauritius, my time has been divided between Mauritius, Seychelles, and the Union of Comoros where I was accredited also.

In Seychelles, I have urged the government to move ahead with economic reforms.  This will be key if Seychelles is to remain economically prosperous.  My replacement will have a big job ahead working with the leadership of this small yet vital country to see these reforms through.  The U.S. Navy often sends ships to Seychelles so that the sailors and soldiers can enjoy rest and relaxation on its beautiful shores.  Having visited this country many times, I know these sailors and soldiers are well taken care of.  I am hopeful that elections to be held in the coming year will proceed peacefully and democratically as planned.

I have also worked hard at building relations between Union of Comoros and the United States.  I believe in the future of that country.  The government there has been an ally in the global war on terrorism - as have Mauritius and Seychelles - and I have become close friends with many Comorians.  I have traveled every avenue and knocked on every door to attempt to convince my government and international organizations that Comoros deserves our attention.  My efforts are paying off.  Development assistance is beginning to flow and democracy is slowly taking root.  The active role of Mauritius in Comoros is also welcome and making a difference.

Although Comoros faces many challenges, I believe in my heart that after the transition of power through the democratic elections in 2006, that country faces a bright future.

My work here has been to actively engage the host governments, which has led to real achievements.  Unfortunately my assignment has now come to an end.  I will miss my many friends.  I will remember with great fondness the white sand beaches, azure blue waters, the lush landscape, and above all the bright smiles of Mauritians.  God has bestowed on Mauritius many great gifts.  I am not referring only to the beautiful pictures you see on the post cards here.  The truest gift of Mauritius is in its people, its culture, its pride, and its achievements.  I arrived here as a businessman and I am leaving an experienced diplomat.  I leave with a great respect and deep admiration for the people of Mauritius.

My experience serving here has been the capstone of my professional career.  The many memories will be close to my heart forever.

May God bless the people of Mauritius.