Speeches

Peace Corps Nicaragua - An Office Inauguration

December 13, 2006

Remarks by Ambassador Paul Trivelli

2006 has been a very special year for the Peace Corps in Nicaragua.

It has been the year that celebrates 25 years of cooperation with the people of Nicaragua. The Peace Corps began operations in Nicaragua in 1968. The first Volunteers worked principally in the areas of community health and the development of cooperatives. After the devastating earthquake in December of 1972, Volunteer efforts were directed to assist the victims of the catastrophe and to assist in reconstruction activities. Then, after the suspension of operations between 1979 and 1990 due to security concerns, Volunteers returned to Nicaragua in 1991. The 15 years since then complete the 25 years of Peace Corps service in the country, with Volunteers now working in five sectors: Community Health, Agriculture and Food Security, Small Business Development, Environmental Education and the teaching of English as a Foreign Language.

The most recent group of Volunteers to make their commitment of Peace Corps service is also the largest single group ever to come to Nicaragua. On November 17 of this year 51 Trainees were sworn in as Peace Corps Volunteers.

It was also this year that then Peace Corps Director Gaddi Vasquez came to Nicaragua in response to a request of the President and Government of Nicaragua to expand the Peace Corps Program. During that visit an agreement was signed on April 5th to launch a new program of Peace Corps cooperation, the teaching of English as a Foreign Language, the first of its kind in the Peace Corps Inter-America and Pacific Region.

In a sense, the inauguration of these new office facilities seals the special character of 2006 for the Peace Corps in Nicaragua. First, it is a clear testimony to the health and growth of the Peace Corps program here. Second, it is a visible expression of confidence and commitment toward the future on the part of the Peace Corps leadership and its Volunteers. Finally, these facilities reflect a strengthened and improved capability of support services for the Volunteers.

In this spirit of international cooperation, solidarity and friendship between our two peoples, and in celebration of these new installations, please join with me in lifting a toast to the Peace Corps and to its enduring commitment to the people of Nicaragua.