2003 Press Releases

Ambassador Jacobson Visits Turkmenbashi City

Sept. 16, 2003

On September 9-10, 2003, Ambassador Tracey Ann Jacobson visited the port city of Turkmenbashi, her first visit in Turkmenistan outside the capital city of Ashgabat. During her visit, Ms. Jacobson highlighted the U.S. Government's continuing support for health programs, the development of non-governmental organizations, and the activities of the alumni of U.S. exchange programs.

During her meetings with NGOs and alumni of U.S. exchange programs, Ms. Jacobson emphasized that "our top priority is democracy and human rights. For example, the people of Turkmenistan should be allowed to travel freely." Ms. Jacobson admired the hard work of the people and organizations working to make their voices heard in Turkmenistan, and working to improve their communities. "From what I have seen in Turkmenistan, the people here have unlimited potential," she noted.

Ms. Jacobson also visited the Tuberculosis Hospital with USAID Country Director Bradford Camp. The Tuberculosis Hospital has had good success in treating this highly infectious disease, and the Ambassador expressed her hope that Hospital staff would share their strategy for success with other hospitals in Turkmenistan.

Ambassador Jacobson looks forward to continuing to meet the people of Turkmenistan by continuing her travels around the country.