April 26, 2008
Ambassador Touts Importance of European Union to U.S. Economy
State legislators from across the country meet with EU's ambassador to U.S.
WASHINGTON - The European Union's ambassador to the United States gave the closing remarks at the National Conference of State Legislature's Spring Forum Saturday, April 26 in Washington, DC. Citing the importance of a global economy, ambassador John Bruton discussed the EU-US relationship in trade, counterterrorism and the promotion of peace.
Bruton also highlighted emerging democracies around the world and efforts to protect human rights in these and other developing nations. Among other parallel issues of importance shared between the United States and the European Union, Bruton discussed public health, energy and the environment.
Bruton, a former Irish prime minister, helped transform the Irish economy into what is often referred to as the "Celtic Tiger," one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Since taking his position in Washington in 2004, Bruton has met with the President and former Presidents of the United States. Additionally, he's visited with Congressional leaders, state legislators and governors from several states to explain that the expanding European Union is good for the US economy and good for American jobs.
Before being appointed ambassador to the United States, Bruton was a member of the Convention that drafted the proposed European Constitution, which was signed in Rome on October 29, 2004. He strongly supported proposals to give the general public a more direct say in the choice of EU leadership by allowing the public of the 27 EU Member States directly to elect the President of the European Commission.
Bruton's speech closed out NCSL's Spring Forum, an annual event where legislators share ideas, strategies and best practices as well as hear the latest happenings on Capitol Hill.
NCSL is the bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.
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