Embassy of the United States

Press Releases

Ambassador Seche's speech in opening Parliamentary Information & Training Center

April 02, 2008

Good morning:
• Speaker of the Parliament al-Raeie;
• Secretary General Sofan;
• Deputy Speakers and Members of Parliament; and,
• distinguished guests

• I am pleased to be here today.

• I am proud of the contribution the US government has made to the establishment of the Parliamentary Training and Information Center.

• There has been much discussion concerning the best way for Yemen to continue its progress as a democratic nation.

• Regardless of the route Yemen chooses,  a parliamentary or a presidential system, one thing is clear:  all successful democracies rely on an effective legislature.

• Even in a presidential system, such as in the United States, our Congress plays an essential role as a check and balance to the power of the executive. 

• In any democracy, emerging or established, the legislature is the vital link between the citizens and their government. 

• All citizens have a right to participate in the formation of policies that affect them through effective legislatures.

• It is important to develop this critical institution in Yemen.

• The facility we are opening today will help the people of Yemen in this mission. 

• This Center will training members of Parliament and their staff to better fulfill their roles and responsibilities.

• The Center will also serve as a research and information resource for MPs and staff.

• This Center will develop and publish briefing notes, handbooks and other practical tools on important issues relating to the Parliament and its processes. 

• Like all growing democracies, Yemen must continue to develop its democratic institutions.  In this regard, the United States and all friends of Yemen place great importance on the successful conduct of Parliamentary elections next year.  We  encourage all parties to make the necessary compromises to ensure that these elections truly reflect the will of the people of this country.

• An effective, independent Parliament that responds to the requirements of  the citizens of Yemen must be a priority. 

• These requirements, in our judgment,  include legislation that effectively addresses issues such as counter-terrorism, transparency in government, and press freedom. 

• On behalf of the people of the United States, I would like to thank Speaker al-Raeie and Secretary General Sofan for their partnership in this project and I look forward to many other opportunities for cooperation in the future. 

Thank you.