Hello, everybody. I’m Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, and it’s a real pleasure and honor to extend my congratulations on behalf of the people of Washington State on the opening of the Consulate of Uzbekistan in Seattle, Washington.
And as I understand it, it’s not only a first in Washington for Uzbekistan; it’s also the first on the entire West Coast. So it’s a special honor for all of us here to welcome you.
I want to also extend my congratulations to the first Consul General here in Washington State, Consul General Burkhanov. So congratulations to you and your staff, and welcome to the Evergreen State.
I know that the diplomatic mission represents an opportunity to grow our cooperation in business and investment, technology, innovation, education, research, culture, tourism, and so much more.
So, for me as a governor, I so look forward to our continued work together, which I know between our two countries and between Washington State and Uzbekistan has been going on for some time.
I look forward to that partnership. And just again, congratulations on this really important milestone, and welcome to Washington State.
