Speeches 2007

September 18, 2007

Ambassador Eaton at the inauguration of the new embassy compound

Distinguished members of the Panamanian government, my fellow ambassadors,
ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the new home of the United States in Panama

General Williams, it is good to have you back in Panama. You were here for the beginning of this great endeavor and can now see the finished product.

It is a magnificent building: on behalf of the Embassy community, we extend a heartfelt thank you to you and OBO for your commitment in making this project a reality.

Vice President Lewis, thank you for joining us today. We are celebrating the construction of a building built by the combined skills of both Americans and Panamanians. It is a modern, visible demonstration of what our two nations can accomplish when we work constructively together.

It is fitting that this was a shared labor, as we dedicate this new embassy
to the people of the United States and Panama. This new embassy compound is a symbol of the historic and strong relationship that exists between two people
who share a common vision of democracy and seek to create a better life
for its present and future citizens.

Ours is an on-going story of two nations, two people looking to enrich the bonds of friendship and commerce.

Today, we add another chapter to this intimate history.

Thank you all for joining us tonight.