IS THE USA REALLY BECOMING MORE INTERNATIONAL ?

Ann Stoc was sworn in as US Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs , by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on 14 July 2010. Ms Stock's remarks on appointment included her commitment to "engaging new communities and cultures in innovative ways to build respect and mutual understanding around the globe". She also noted that US exchange programs are especially important, in building "the bridges that link our diverse American culture with cultures around the world". Finally, she noted that "exchanges create such a legacy for us… In the last six weeks alone, six of our program alumni have become heads of state or heads of government. Through our ongoing contacts with these "alumni", we foster relationships with new generations and fuel an engine for change that is perhaps unprecedented in American diplomacy….exchanges, together with other forms of cultural and educational outreach, are a quintessentially American form of diplomacy that I hope to increase, to amplify, and to sustain in a lasting and meaningful way."