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| |  Online Event for FLEX students from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan with Stephen Hart January 30, 2003 Katy Pearce: Welcome students and observers. Students, if you want to ask Mr. Hart a question, click on the "Ask Question" button. Please ask one question and wait at least 3 minutes before asking another. When asking a question, please name your home country. Katy Pearce, the moderator, will read your question and give it to Mr. Hart. Katy Pearce:While Mr. Hart is typing, please write more questions. Students were asked to prepare 5 questions ahead of time, however, students please feel free to ask questions that are different from the ones which you have prepared. When the chat is finished, you must complete the evaluation form. The link to the evaluation form is above this chat window. And now, to present Mr. Stephen Hart. Mr. Hart is the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Professional Exchanges in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart has worked in both the public and private sector, as you have learned from your homework assignments. He is going to answer students' questions about the Future Leaders Exchange Program as well as the impact that exchange programs have upon Eurasian communities. We will not focus on U.S. State Department policy in the region. Fortunate for all of us, he is willing to speak to Future Leaders Exchange students from the Central Asia. Again, welcome all students and adults, on behalf the U.S. Departments of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, we appreciate your enthusiasm for this event. Thanks for joining us. Students, you may begin asking questions. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, many of the students want to know about your position at the State Department and what duties and responsibilities that you have. Stephen Hart: First of all, welcome. It's a pleasure to be able to converse with you in this manner. I have the honor of working with 150 members of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs team who conduct programs that host as many as 25,000 visitors a year with a budget of approximately $120,000,000. Dowran Babayev from Turkmenistan asks: Hello Mr. Hart, my name is Dowran and I am from Turkmenistan, may be this question is kind of nonsense but have you watched the State of the Union? Stephen Hart: Yes, with earnest interest. I am a political appointee appointed by President Bush to this position, so I am very interested. Sayora Khakimova from Uzbekistan asks: Mr. Hart, Ive learnt from your biography that you have served as a Special Assistant to the President and Deputy Press Secretary at White House. Can you describe the work that you have done during that time? Stephen Hart: My job working with Marlin Fitzwater, a name you may recognize, was to work directly with the White House press corps answering all manner of questions on the policy of the Administration, the President's views of the world, even his private life -- health, investments, taxes, and the like. Elmira Tolubaeva from Kyrgyzstan asks: What was your first impression about this ECA job? Stephen Hart: My first impression was how did I come to be so lucky. In government it is very rare to touch so many people's lives and to see the fruits of your labor so quickly. Too often, government employees spend years on policy matters before a change is effected. At ECA we are privileged to interact with people like you in a forum like this on a minute by minute basis. Bahtiyor Astonakulov from Tajikitan asks: Mr.Hart,i'm sorry ,my name is Bahtiyor Astonakulov ,and i'm from Tajikitan,i want to ask you about your duties and how much time does it take to you to work? Stephen Hart: My average work day is about 10 hours and like many in govt. I go from meeting to meeting, but I also am in the enviable position of making decisions that I know will benefit people around the world like you. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, many students ask about the future of the FLEX program. Specific questions include: what will determine the number of students in the future and how long will the FLEX program continue. Also, the students wish to know about any possible changes in the program in the future. Stephen Hart: There are no plans to change the program. In fact, it has been such a great success that we are expanding it to other regions of the world. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, almost all of the students have asked how exchange programs can help to improve the relationship between their countries and the United States. Can you please speak to this? Stephen Hart: One of the great benefits of working at ECA is that we deal with people to people relationships, unlike so many of our peers throughout the State Dept. who deal with govt to govt relationships. People to people programs allow us to present to each other who we are as individuals and thru that interaction who we are as a country, as a society, and a culture. Having benefited from such interaction, each of us comes away with a greater understanding of the other and may help bridge the gaps of understanding or correct misperceptions of others. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, many students wish to know why the United States sponsors programs like FLEX. Their questions relate to what the benefits for America and the American people exist from exchange programs. Stephen Hart: As you learn about us, you also educate us about you. We receive from the very gift we are giving the benefits of your perspectives on your country and the world. We also believe that we have much to offer and it is through these programs that we are able to provide our perspectives on the world for the taking or leaving. Alexandra Petrenko from Kazakhstan asks: Does Mr. Hart agree that the program of academic exchange is necessary for our countrie who know so little about each others cultures and styles of life? Stephen Hart: Absolutely. It's fundamental. Nadia Egorova from Kyrgyzstan asks: Hello, Dear Mr. Hart, do you have enough time for your family with your buzy life? Stephen Hart: To be honest, it's a challenge, but I think it is a challenge that is shared by parents around the world. Each night when I go home I take with me a broader understanding of the world thru exposure to people like you that I share with my family. So while there is a trade-off, we all benefit. Katy Pearce: All of the students are curious, Mr. Hart, if you have traveled to Central Asia and if not, where have you traveled to. Stephen Hart: No I have not traveled to Central Asia but I look forward to doing so. In my time at the White House I was privileged to travel with the President and the Vice President all around the world. Elmira Tolubaeva from Kyrgyzstan asks: What is the most important thing you have done? Stephen Hart: Primarily to Far East, Europe, the Middle East and throughout the Western Hemisphere. Being the father of my 20-month-old son is the most important thing I have done. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, have you yourself been an exchange student or ever hosted one, many of the students wish to know? Stephen Hart: I have not. In fact, I didn't know much about exchange programs until I took this job and I now look back on that with regret. Mariya Shafigova from Kazakhstan asks: Mr. Hart, would you like your son o become an exchange student as he grows up? Stephen Hart: Mariya, yes, I definitely would, as I feel it will open a door to a world of greater understanding, opportunity, and a lively hunger for knowledge. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, nearly all of the students have asked if American students can come to Central Asia on exchange programs. On the same note, the students have said that they'd like to see more foreigners in general in Central Asia. Stephen Hart: I can't speak to seeing more foreigners in CA, but on the subject of American students we are encouraging more students to participate in our exchange programs. One of the fundamental ways we do that is to expose them to you. Kira Baisultanova from Kazakstan asks: Mr.Hart, do you think it would help you in your future career if had such opportunity to be an exhange student when you was in high school? Stephen Hart: Kira, yes, and that is the reason for my regret. I think that such programs broader horizons and help people like you identify your personal ambitions and prepare you to deal in the world beyond where you grew up. Bakhodir Abdullaev from Uzbekistan asks: Hello, what do you think is there a way to reduce the dislike of some american students toward the Muslim religion, and muslims in general? Stephen Hart: Bakhodir, first I want to reassure you that your perception of American students toward Muslims is inaccurate. If, however, you are sensing that, I would dearly like to know the circumstances, because I'm confident that in a moment's notice, I could introduce you to hundreds of students who felt differently. We are a nation that celebrates diversity and tolerance. We know that it is our diverse heritage that has made us strong and it is because of that we are tolerant and welcome differing views and differing beliefs. I sincerely hope that you are not speaking from personal experience. If so, I WANT TO KNOW! Thank you. Otabek Umarov from Uzbekistan asks: I have some comments about this article, this article is not too bad and it is good that the programm trying to involve more muslim students which is really good, I think the programm has keep doing the work which they started, to bringing more muslims not just from asian countries but African and Middle East countries too. Because most of those students they dont know what American life is, and they have no idea about it is culture.So my question is thatDo you have any plans ab Stephen Hart: Otabek, yes we do have such plans you may recall in the previous answer that we are expanding the FLEX program. It is to many countries in the "Islamic world" that we are expanding the program. Our Congress recently gave us $7 million to conduct high school exchanges with youth in Islamic countries. Makhfirat Shorahimova from Tajikistan asks: Mr.Hart, I am muslim, and I'm glad that I am participating this program. But I also wanted to ask what are some other ways to show American peopla that not all the muslims are terrorists? Stephen Hart: Makhfirat, you ask a very good question, one that points to a dire need. That is, to expose Americans to many more Muslims from around the world, so that the kind of understanding that we know comes from these people to people programs dispels stereotypes and helps us and you fight misperceptions. Otabek Narzullaev from Uzbekistan asks: Mr. Hart I read that question about reducing dislike muslims, I think we have to teach about this religion to american students, I am sure that they will understand, what do you think? Stephen Hart: Otabek, yes, in fact I have to admit that I have learned a lot about Islam in the past year and while I still mourn those lost on 9-11. I am pleased that the tragedy has turned me to a greater enlightenment of Islam. I found that Islam and Christianity are so close together that it is hard to discern the differences in our core beliefs. It is this type of understanding that is spreading in the U.S. and thru your efforts and thru this program we both should take it upon ourselves to enlighten others. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, a number of students are interesting in hearing about your personal opinion of Central Asia and Central Asian Governments. Stephen Hart: We are walking a path towards greater understanding and partnership, and that is good for us all. Elena Volovich from Tajikistan asks: How many kids do you have? Stephen Hart: Elena, I have one and 1/3. In other words, I have one who is 20 months old (a boy) and another boy who will arrive, God willing, in July. Dariga Kdyragliyeva from Kazakhstan asks: Mr. Hart, how do you think we can contribute to the society we live in? Stephen Hart: Dariga, volunteerism is fundamental to the success of our society and so I am an advocate for it. Teaching others what you have learned and giving back to your communities are very important. The practice of being a good citizen, whether it be in dealing with environmental challenges or in ensuring that the govt. is held accountable to the voters, are the core precepts of our country that have served us so well and so naturally. I would encourage you to study them and adopt what you feel works in your communities. Katy Pearce: On the same note, although the students still have a number of months to go in the U.S., they are already thinking about what it will be like when they are FLEX alumni. Can you talk about the alumni programs and what types of opportunities exist? Also, why is it important for alumni to stay connected? Stephen Hart: Thank you for this question. Being an alumnus of this program carries a responsibility. The program doesn't end when you leave the US. We want you to continue your relationships, maintain your contacts, and use your status as alumni to network with other alumni where we know you will make a difference. Gulnaz Ukasova form Kazakstan asks: Hello, my name is Gulnaz (Kazakstan).This program is called Future leaders exchange program.HOw many former exchange students really become involved in politics.And do you keep track of it? Stephen Hart: Gulnaz, when we say leadership, we don't just mean it in the context of politics. A number of alumni have gone on to be very successful business people, lawyers, teachers, leaders of NGOs, and journalists. They have also entered govt service. All can contribute equally as future leaders. Meerim Matkulova from Kyrgyzstan asks: Mr. Hart, a lot of people might have asked you this question, but what do you think helped you to become such a succesful person. Stephen Hart: Meerim, a couple of things: the benefits of a good education and inquiring mind, the opportunities of the free society of America, and perhaps the most important, hard work. Bahrom Abdulloev from Tajikistan asks: Do you remember the day in your job that you will never forget Stephen Hart: Bahrom, let me reflect on a previous job. It would have to be the time when President Bush No. 41 asked me into the Oval Office following a particularly difficult briefing of the WH press corps to debrief him on the questions I had received and the answers I had given. When you are a WH spokesman, you not only speak on behalf of the President but on behalf of the entire nation, which is both a great honor but also a very scary prospect. Mariyam Montayeva from Kazakhstan asks: Im really scared about some hatred which exists in our countries against America, especially now it will increase, do you think that its our purpose to enlighten our people about the real America and its motives for certain actions? Stephen Hart: Mariyan, I realize that doing so might be very difficult for you and in some cases even dangerous. I do hope, though, that you, using your creativity and God-given talents, might find ways to be voices of moderation against such hatred. We are not a hateful people. Together I hope we can convince the world of that. Almazbek Urbaev from Kyrgyzstan asks: I have heard from couple american people saying that many american starving while U.S Government is spending a lot of money on international exchange programs like FSA/FLEX.Do you think there will be any changes in 5 years on financing exchange programs by USA? Stephen Hart: Almazbek, you ask a good question but one that I cannot answer. A hypothetical question like this is by its nature something that relies on so many variables that I could not predict what the future will hold five years from now. Let me reassure you that this program has many champions and is among programs that have been in place in the US for over 60 years. But it is not for only you and others that come here as visitors. It is as important for the Americans you interact with on a daily basis as it is for you. Those that would argue that we should not spend money on programs such as this do not see the long term benefits that mutual understanding brings in a world that is rife with stereotypes, misinformation, and misperceptions. These are the causes of the kinds of hatred that lead people to act as those did on 9-11. We are not unique in the world in experiencing such terror neither are we unique in being misunderstood. The investment that America makes in exchange programs is an investment in our own security and the security of nations around the world. This is the kind of sustenance we all aspire to and cannot be equated with domestic concerns. Gulnoza Vakkasova from Uzbekistan asks: You wrote that you two boys and one of them will arrive in July if it is not personal where is he? is he an exchange student? Stephen Hart: Gulnoza, no I should have been clearer. He is not yet born. Katy Pearce: Mr. Hart, many of the students have asked questions about the possible war in Iraq and the impact that it may have on Central Asia. Can you please speak to that? Stephen Hart: I can't predict what the future holds with regard to Iraq and the decisions Saddam Hussein will make. We have many partners in CA that we value and our commitment to that region and to programs run by ECA will be sustained as the future allows. Meerim Matkulova from Kyrgyzstan asks: Mr.Hart, do you believe that the former Soviet Countries can become democratic countries, while we have curruption, and an economic crisis? If you do believe, than what do you think is the way of getting out of this situation? Stephen Hart: Merrim, yes I do believe that democracy is within reach. You face a challenge that is evolutionary in nature rather than revolutionary, and that requires patience, commitment, and hard work. We hope that thru programs such as FLEX we lend you the tools, help you forge the relationships and build the networks that will help you realize the dream of democracy. Mariya Shafigova from Kazakhstan asks: Mr. Hart, how, do you think, the experience of being an exchange student can contribute to further career in the area of international work? Stephen Hart: Mariya, it provides a healthy foundation, a spring board to a future in the international arena. You are way ahead of those who have not shared in your experience. If in no other way then you know what opportunities exist and where your interests lie. You've had the opportunity to see the world thru another's eyes and therefore understand the fundamental challenge of communicating across cultural boundaries.You have a wonderful start and, to be honest and a bit selfish, I'm very proud to have played the small part I have in giving you that start. Chingiz Madakhmetov from Kazakhstan asks: It is obvious that being a father feels much better tha having that job, and what is harder, being a father or doing your job? Stephen Hart: Chingiz, some days it is easier to go to work than to stay home but I do miss being with my family. Both are rewarding in such different ways that it is hard to compare the two. However, if you can figure out how I can go to work and still have all the experiences of being at home, I will nominate you for the Nobel Prize and introduce you to Bill Gates, because you will surely deserve it. Bahtiyor Astonakulov from Tajikistan asks: Mr.Hart do you think that North Corea can seriously dangerous to the U.S.? Stephen Hart: Bahtiyor, yes and not only to us. That is why we are heavily engaged in trying to reason with North Korea's leadership. Mariyam Montayeva from Kazakhstan asks: Now, being in the USA I compare it to my country and see that my country is like USA in 1930s. Will we be able to close the huge gap in development in our countries in such a short amount of time? Stephen Hart: Mariyam, I almost feel I should be asking you that question, because you are the agent of change. I'm confident that you and others like you have the wherewithal, the intellect and the commitment to close that gap and remember, you won't be doing it alone. We are here with you. Bahrom Abdulloev from Tajikistan asks: I heard that US , sent about about 50 million to the Central Asian , Middle Eastern countries. Is it right? What for? Stephen Hart: Bahrom, I'm sorry but I don't know what you are talking about. We have provided millions of dollars in aid. Katy Pearce: I think that Bahrom is interesting in learning about the variety of programs that US Government funding provides for Central Asia. Stephen Hart: I can't speak to the entire US government, but I do know that ECA alone funds scores of programs that reach CA and that host everyone from ministers of government to school teachers and, in your case, students. FLEX is one of those, and one that has been extremely successful. As an alumnus you join the ranks of all the others who have benefited from those programs. I encourage you to reach out to those others and learn from each other's experiences in the US. Together you form a huge resource to benefit your people. Ulugbek Baymuradov from Uzbekistan asks: Hello Mr. Hart, I am Ulugbek from Uzbekistan): Did you have to change your baby's diapers Stephen Hart: Ulugbek, you bet! That is an honor shared by most American fathers. Azimjon Umarov from Uzbekistan asks: What were the most impressive things you have seen, done or heard during your experience working as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Professional Exchanges? Stephen Hart: Azimjon, it is still early for me in this position but I remember the hours I spent with FLEX students in the civic education program last year. Here is a group of students from all over Eurasia who had in less than a week become one large family and in whose faces I saw the excitement of possibilities and the future and it was a bright future! Ruslan Sanakulov from Turkmenistan asks: When you were a regular teenager, what was your first job that you had? Could you imagine at that time, that you would become Deputy Assistant Secretary for Professional Exchanges for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State Stephen Hart: Ruslan, I was a paper boy and my biggest worry was making sure that I got the right advertisements into the Sunday papers. So no, I could not ever have imagined that fortune would smile on me and God's good countenance would give me this wonderful opportunity. A paper boy is someone who delivers the newspapers to people's homes. Katy Pearce: Students, we will be closing the questions now. So that Mr. Hart may say some closing words before we close. Stephen Hart: I want to thank all of you for this opportunity. As I said, it's rare in life to be exposed to so many young and promising future leaders. I wish I could share with you, make you feel the fullness of my heart as we close out this session. I'm reassured that as I pass on this world to my sons, it will be left in the hands of leaders such as you. That knowledge will help me rest easy about the future. Thank you and God bless. Katy Pearce: Thank you Mr. Hart. Katy Pearce: The students, placement organizations, ECA alumni, host families, host educators, and all others greatly appreciate this time that you have given us. Thank you Mr. Hart and students. We appreciate your time. We have run out of time. We hope that you enjoyed this online event and that you have learned something new about the relationship between the United States and the nations of Central Asia and the impact that exchange programs such as FLEX have on Eurasian communities. Please fill out the evaluation form in order for us to continue hosting events such as this in the best way possible. Thank you so much... Katy Pearce: Students, please click on the leave button and fill out the evaluation form. 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