Matthew Bryza urges volunteers to share American values with Azerbaijani youth

Swearing-in ceremony of 44 new US Peace Corps Volunteers was held yesterday in Azerbaijan`s capital. In her opening remarks Director of Peace Corps Azerbaijan Macie Whittington said volunteers will work in 24 regions and share their knowledge, skills and experience to develop local communities and organizations. Their area of activity will span economic development, youth development and English teaching.

Speaking in the event, US Ambassador to Azerbaijan Matthew Bryza called on the volunteers to share American values and experience with Azerbaijani youth. Bryza stressed that during this period the volunteers will have a chance to familiarize themselves with the rich culture, history, economy of Azerbaijan.

Deputy Education Minister of Azerbaijan Gulu Novruzov pointed out that more than 200 volunteers are serving in the country. He expressed hope the new volunteers would contribute to raising awareness of American people on Azerbaijan`s rich cultural heritage, history.
Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Intigam Babayev underscored importance of the event. He said the relations between the volunteers and Azerbaijani youth would generate effective cooperation.

The Peace Corps was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy in response to a call by Americans to provide qualified Volunteers who contribute to the social, economic, and human development of countries requesting assistance. In the course of its 50 years, over 200,000 Americans have served in 139 nations. Today, Peace Corps supports over 8,500 Volunteers in 75+ countries, including Azerbaijan.

The Peace Corps' mission is to facilitate the productive exchange of knowledge and expertise with individuals and organizations. Volunteers do not provide commodities, equipment, or funds.


/AzerTAc/