Embassy Press Release

Remarks by Ambassador Nicholas Taubman On the Occasion of the 4th of July

American Ambassador’s Residence
Bucharest, July 4, 2008

- As prepared for delivery -

Mr. President,
Distinguished Ministers and Colleagues in the Diplomatic Corps,
Ladies and Gentlemen:

July 4, 2008. Across the US and around the world Americans and their families, friends and neighbors will come together in small towns and large cities, in parks and churches, by rivers and lakes to mark this day, the 232nd anniversary of the independence of the United States.

Some wonder, every year, about the state of our nation. They may criticize one or another government’s policies, both domestically and internationally. In truth, we have more than enough issues to worry about, from the economy to global warming, to our common struggle against terrorism, and countless other challenges in between.

So, as we contemplate our freedom and democracy on July 4, 2008, what do we see collectively as a nation? What we find in our 232nd year is that our American democracy, whatever the challenges, is strong, indeed, stronger than it has ever been.

How can this be? Disagreement over foreign policy, domestic needs and all of our values abound. The list of our shortcomings and problems is a long one. Yet I would confidently assert -- we are freer and stronger than at any time in our history.

Our strength lies in our Constitution. It is our anchor in troubled times; a constant source of nourishment for our democracy and an everlasting beacon to guide us. When in doubt, we look to our Constitution and the body of law surrounding it. The American constitution has been amended 27 times over the years to subtly change our course. These changes serve to strengthen our faith in this document and in the rule of law.

With all this, the most important part of the Constitution is an intangible: it is the confidence and belief Americans have in it. It is our shared conviction that our legislative, judicial and presidential branches of the government will operate by and within the Constitution. It is the belief that the law is sacred, and that everyone must abide by it.

When the Congress votes, it becomes law.

When our president defends, protects and carries out his constitutional duty, we follow him – or her.

When our judicial system, up to the Supreme Court, hands down a decision, we respect and obey it.

On this July 4, 2008, America remains strong because of an intangible, a belief in ourselves and in our rule of law. This intangible confidence in our Constitution and in our institutions means we are confident that we can overcome any of the challenges that lie ahead.

As United States Ambassador I came to this country in 2005, with Romania a brand new member of NATO, a growing partner of the United States. Since then, Romania has gained both in strength and wisdom. You are a member of the European Union. Your economy is growing rapidly. You hosted the largest NATO summit ever, and it was by all accounts one of the best-organized and most successful. Romania is an important country, in an important region, playing an important role. While you have – like we Americans – many challenges ahead, many needs that are still unmet, Romania is moving forward, even showing the way.

In these three years, our close partnership has grown even closer. And Romania is not only a strong partner, but a reliable and true friend to the United States. We feel and appreciate that warmth and friendship you have extended. We do everything we can to reciprocate. Our partnership and friendship have made both of our countries stronger.

Thank you Romania, for marching forward with America.

Happy Fourth of July.

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