U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg
Meets with the Press
Trinidad, February 11, 2008

Ambassador Goldberg: Well, we have seen this afternoon the damage that the water has caused in Beni. We are very pleased to have this opportunity to help out the victims of this natural disaster, because the people are suffering so much. It was moving to see all these people as they approached us in that tent-filled town. They called it “USAID city.” It affects us all when people suffer. The U.S. is able to help the Bolivian people also in this time of great need.

Are there any questions?

Question from UNITEL journalist: Mr. Ambassador, Evo Morales has made very strong statements. He said they would oust an American (Embassy) officer. This is in relation to the so-called Fulbright case. He has condemned what he calls espionage.

Ambassador Goldberg: Our spokesperson already discussed this issue in the morning and he touched the facts of the situation.
At no time did any Embassy employee ask U.S. citizens to engage in intelligence activities in the country. But I want to say that I sincerely regret this incident, which was made known last weekend.

We absolutely respect the sovereignty and dignity of Bolivia. We respect this and I am willing to speak with representatives of the Government to clarify everything and to present all the facts, as our spokesperson stated in the morning.

I just want to say that we are dealing with this issue with sincerity, seriousness, and with the truth.

Thank you.