Marking
November 15-19 as a worldwide celebration of International
Education Week, Secretary of State Colin Powell said the
United States welcomes foreign students and teachers who
choose to participate in exchange programs here.
In an October 15 statement, Powell said,
"Throughout America's history, openness has immeasurably
enriched our democracy, our culture, our economy, and our
nation as a whole" and cited the friendships and partnerships
resulting from academic exchanges as important in developing
understanding and cooperation between nations.
Powell also encouraged more U.S. students
to study abroad.
"The more we learn about and understand
each other," he said, "the more effective we will
be in creating a world of global citizens, and the better
our chances of achieving peace in our increasingly interdependent
world."
The U.S. Department of State and the U.S.
Department of Education have jointly produced a website
with more information on International Education Week activities
at http://exchanges.state.gov/iew/.
Following is the text of Secretary Powell's
statement:
(begin text)
Secretary Colin L. Powell
Washington, DC
October 15, 2004
The U.S. Department of State is pleased
to join the U.S. Department of Education in marking the
fifth year of International Education Week, November 15-19.
Celebrated worldwide, International Education Week provides
an opportunity to highlight the benefits of international
education and exchange; to express appreciation for students
and scholars who study and teach here; and to commend the
millions of people who build and strengthen bridges of international
understanding by organizing and participating in exchange
programs.
Throughout America's history, openness has
immeasurably enriched our democracy, our culture, our economy,
and our nation as a whole. America's educational institutions
attract talented future leaders from around the world. International
students and scholars benefit from engagement with our society
and academic institutions and we benefit enormously from
their interaction with our society as they help our citizens
develop understanding and knowledge that enriches our lives,
increases international cooperation, enhances our national
security, and improves our economic competitiveness.
Meeting the 21st century challenges that
confront all countries requires an unprecedented degree
of understanding and cooperation among nations and among
leaders in every field. The professional partnerships and
lifelong friendships that result from international education
and exchange help build a foundation of understanding and
lasting partnerships. These partnerships are important for
a secure, prosperous future, not only for the United States,
but also for the world as a whole.
We are immensely proud that more than 200
alumni of State Department-sponsored international exchange
programs have become heads of state or government, and we
recognize the contributions of teachers and language instructors
in building grass roots mutual understanding. I know that
tomorrow's leaders are among the thousands of men and women
who will participate this year in U.S government and privately
sponsored educational exchange programs. We look forward
to welcoming these exchange participants in our country,
while continuing to encourage more of our own young people
to study in other nations.
Please join us in this celebration and share
your International Education Week activities on our website
http://exchanges.state.gov/iew/. The more we learn about
and understand each other, the more effective we will be
in creating a world of global citizens, and the better our
chances of achieving peace in our increasingly interdependent
world.
(end text)
