Speech

Turn Over Ceremony of Medical Supplies and Equipment
Ta-Oy, Salavan Province

Good morning, Mr. Mayor Clinic Director and Staff,

Ladies and Gentlemen;

I am honored to participate in today’s ceremony for the turn over of medical and equipment supplies to the Ta-Oy Clinic. The United States has had a long and productive association with the people of Salavan province and Ta-Oy district.

This relationship, which began in the 1980’s, is built on shared humanitarian values and has been carried out in a spirit of mutual assistance. Over the years, many officials and residents of Ta-Oy, and throughout Salavan province, have worked closely with joint US-Lao MIA investigation and recovery teams. Since 2002,Ta-Oy district has graciously permitted our joint activity field teams to maintain a Tao-Oy base camp Our teams greatly appreciate your warm welcome and hospitality. I am told, Mr. Mayor, that every time our joint teams arrive, you are here to greet them. For that, I am extremely grateful. In recognition of the support provided to us by the people of Ta-Oy, the United States built this clinic in 2004.

Today, I have the honor of presenting the clinic with a donation of medical supplies from the United States Pacific Command. Last July, when Vice Minister of National Defense Lt. Gen. Ai Soulignaseng visited Ta-Oy, he stopped to see this clinic. The clinic staff told him about the need for supplies, and Lt. Gen. Ai asked the Embassy for assistance. I am pleased to be able to meet his request. It is my sincere hope that these supplies will help the Ta-Oy clinic continue to provide good quality health care to the local people.

Mr. Mayor, I present these supplies to you on behalf of the American people and the Government of the United States of America.

Thank you.