As part of the Embassy Speakers Bureau Program, Economic Counselor, Richard Rorvig, spoke about U.S. Economic Diplomacy to 50 students of the International Relations Department of Warsaw University on March 2, 2006. Rorvig addressed a number of issues related to economic and commercial relations between America and Poland and described the role of the economic section in the embassy. Rorvig mentioned the fact that even though the trade with Poland is hardly noticed, Poland is a strategic place to invest and is seen as one of the fastest growing countries in the European Union. After his presentation, students asked questions ranging from new developments in American economic policy, to trade relations with China, and to the continuation of the embargo on Cuba. Afterwards, one of the students approached Rorvig to inform him that he found this presentation very helpful because he is preparing to write his master thesis on the same subject.

Through the Speakers Bureau Program, the Embassy is able to not only promote U.S. culture and values but also effectively discuss U.S. economic relations and policy. Speaking to university students is an important element of creating a positive image of America abroad. By this presentation, Rorvig was able to show his expert understanding of Poland’s economy and discuss U.S. economic foreign policy with future leaders of tomorrow.