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Paul L. Cejas, Ambassador designate (Belgium) Statement before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Washington, DC, June 3, 1998

Mr. Chairman and members of the Committee: It is with great honor that I appear before you today as the nominee to be the United States Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. I would like to thank President Clinton and Secretary of State Albright for the considerable trust and confidence that they have placed in me by considering me for nomination to this important diplomatic post. I would also like to thank my wife, Trudy, and my children for their endless support, as well as my dear friends and colleagues for their assistance and best wishes.

We are currently amidst an extremely significant period in modern European and world history, as well as with regard to ongoing relations between the United States and the continent of Europe. At the core of this significant historical period is one of the United States' closest friends and allies -- Belgium. As Europe continues down the road toward the formation of the European Union and the implementation of a single European currency, the role of Belgium as a leader and staunch defender of open markets, democratic ideals, and human rights stands only to grow in importance. Home to both the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, Belgium's history of cooperation with the United States is now at the fore during a period in which relations between the nations should continue to grow in the spirit of mutual assistance and benefit. Moreover, Belgium continues to be a significant trading partner of the United States, as well as a major economic and financial ally which is host to over 1,500 American companies.

It is within these contexts that I believe my experience as a successful businessman and public servant will best serve the interests of the United States abroad. As a consensus-builder with formal financial training and background, I believe that I am well-equipped to further promote the strong U.S.-Belgian economic bonds, as well as assist with complex issues affecting our relations with European Union countries, particularly the development of the European Monetary Union. As a former CEO of an Inc. 500 company, I have been able to sharpen my ability to recognize the critical factors in given situations and draw on my negotiating skills to achieve goals through mutual agreement while maintaining the importance of the parties involved.

My various leadership roles during my tenures as a public servant have also enabled me to comply with the responsibilities associated with this important diplomatic position. During my 5 years as chairman of our nation's fourth-largest school system, I was often charged with the task of resolving complex and controversial issues by building consensus and support from my fellow colleagues. The same has held true of my posts with the State of Florida Trade and Commerce Mission to South America, the Commission on Unitary Tax for Florida, the Florida Partnership of the Americas, and the State of Florida University System Board of Regents. All of these experiences have equipped me with a strong understanding of the dynamics of government workings and the importance of the wise use of public resources.

If confirmed, I intend to use all of these skills to embark upon this critical diplomatic mission in this historic era by making every effort necessary to continue to enhance the richness and depth of the relationship between the United States and Belgium, while protecting and advancing the interests of our great nation abroad. Within this context, it is with a great sense of honor and pride that I humbly convey to you my most sincere desire to fulfill the task of serving our country in the capacity of the United States Ambassador to Belgium. Thank you and your committee for your time and consideration.

[End of Document]

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