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Ambassador Negroponte watches as the American flag is raised over the U.S. Embassy's Regional Office in Basra. (State Dept photo)
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Distinguished Iraqi officials; Mr. Michael Ratney, Regional Coordinator of this office; members of the staff of the Embassy's Regional Office in Basra; and ladies and gentleman.
It is an honor to be here with you today to raise the American flag over this office, a simple but richly symbolic gesture.
When we raise the flag in a few moments we are doing much more than declaring this building to be an extension of our embassy in Baghdad. Rather, we are reaffirming our commitment to the future of southern Iraq. We are rededicating ourselves to a vision, a vision of a secure, prosperous, and democratic Iraq, for you, your children, and your grandchildren.
We want to convey, in the most concrete and explicit way, that the United States will not waver in that commitment. Soon, our Program and Contracting Office will be investing in major infrastructure projects in this province. USAID has already undertaken several large programs, one of which -- the Basra Water Project -- I will visit this afternoon.
The staff at this office -- from the State Department, the United States Agency for International Development, the Department of Defense, contractors, and, not least, our Iraqi colleagues -- will work with local officials, Iraqi businesses, Iraqi security forces, and all well-intentioned residents of this region to support you in achieving your goals. We will help you and listen to you. And with this international aid you will construct a free and safe Iraq.
We will not spare any effort in this endeavor. Yes, the task is difficult. The obstacles are many, the challenges great. But with the help of your international partners, with determination and a sense of cooperation, you will do it.
Now, please raise the flag.
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