October 26, 2004 Ambassador Gnehm Launches Cultural Series On Tuesday, October 26th, the Jordanian Ambassador’s Cultural Series was launched by former U.S. Ambassador to Jordan, Mr. Edward Gnehm. He spoke under the theme “Jordan and America-Building For Tomorrow”. Ambassador Gnehm recounted his experiences in Jordan and discussed the future that lies ahead between Jordan and the United States. He spoke of Jordan’s perseverance and persistence in their effort to build a better tomorrow. Ambassador Gnehm highlighted several factors that showed the strength and positive direction of U.S. and Jordan relations. In the field of trade and commerce, he noted that the United States remains Jordan’s #1 trading partner. “Bold decisions by the Government of Jordan that brought Jordan into the WTO, the Jordan-US Free Trade Agreement, as well as changes in legislation to implement these agreements and to encourage foreign investment, illustrate my point that Jordan’s leaders know where they want to go and are going there.” Ambassador Gnehm also touched on the ever increasing U.S. AID program in Jordan, upholding that the United States does care about the welfare of Jordanians in providing support and training in hopes for a better tomorrow. “Education and exchanges are other areas where Jordan and the US work together to build a better tomorrow,” Ambassador Gnehm declared. “American companies are active in new distant learning programs. American universities are pursuing academic relationships with Jordanian universities.” In reference to the dynamic Fulbright program between the two countries he remarked, “Such an exchange is, in my opinion, critical not only for education but also for building a common understanding.” “Building a better tomorrow means dealing forthrightly with political and security issues,” the former U.S. Ambassador to Jordan proclaimed. He noted Jordan’s steadfastness in confronting terror. “I told every visitor to the embassy and every audience that I spoke to that I never once had to convince a Jordanian that we needed to confront terrorism. Jordan has been a victim of terrorism many times in its history.” In his closing remarks, Ambassador Gnehm asserted his gratitude towards the country. “I love the country. I love the people.” As for his vision for both countries, “Jordan and the United State have faced many challenges together in the past. We will face many challenges in the future. Together we will meet them boldly. Together we will build that better tomorrow.”