Central Asia and Afghanistan Women’s Economic Symposium

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

Video Remarks

Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic

July 18, 2011 

Secretary Clinton:  Welcome everyone to this important symposium which is helping to expand economic opportunity for women from Central Asia and Afghanistan. 

I was pleased to announce this event at the OSCE Summit last year and now I'm delighted to see that you have made it a reality. 

I especially want to thank President Otunbayeva for bringing everyone together. Her leadership on micro-finance for women has helped build a movement that has transformed the lives of millions around the world.  Because the research on micro-finance is clear.  Investing in girls and women spurs economic growth and helps create stable and prosperous societies. 

Those of you here today know just how important these investments are.  I hope you will take this opportunity to share stories, compare challenges, explore solutions that will advance not only economic success but the success of your countries and the region.  Because behind every successful person -- male or female -- there is a support network.  So I want to thank the policymakers and the business owners, the educators, donors and civil society leaders who are with you today to help each of you fulfill your potential and to help you in turn contribute to your country's future.  I hope more partners will join in the future.  

I wish each of you continued success and I look forward to hearing about the results of this forum.  I hope it is the beginning of a long-term successful partnership for all of us.   

Thank you very much.

Click here to see video: http://video.state.gov/en/video/1047816070001