Bush lecture talk

Introduction

The lecture event is hosted by Dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service, discussing economic policies of George H. W. Bush, led by Ambassador John Negroponte, who has had a significant career in public service.

Welcome Remarks by Dean Sherman

  • Introduction: Dean Sherman expresses gratitude toward ConocoPhillips for sponsoring the White House Lecture Series.

  • Ambassador John Negroponte: An esteemed guest and expert in many fields, will speak about George H. W. Bush's economic policies.

  • Personal Connection: Emphasizes his previous working relationship with Negroponte when he served as Director of National Intelligence under President George W. Bush.

  • Special Guests Recognition: Acknowledges various distinguished guests present in the audience including:

    • Andy Card, former White House chief of staff

    • Doctor Bowen Walton, former president of Texas A&M University

    • John and Daisy White

    • Mayor John Nichols of College Station

    • Members of the Bush School Advisory Board, including Doctor John Adams and Lieutenant General Randy House.

Introduction of Alice Yates

  • Role: CEO of the George and Barbara Bush Foundation

  • Observation on Leadership: Emphasizes the importance of finding exceptional leaders who embody selfless service and inspiring the next generation.

  • Program Outline: The program will include remarks from Ambassador Negroponte followed by a moderated conversation with Doctor Raven Robertson, Director of the Mosbacher Institute and professor at Bush School.

Ambassador John Negroponte's Background

  • Current Position: Vice Chairman of McCarty Associates since 2009.

  • Career Highlights: Served as ambassador in various countries, including Honduras, Mexico, the Philippines, Japan, and as the first Director of National Intelligence.

  • Awards: Received the State Department's Distinguished Service Medal twice and the National Security Medal from President George W. Bush.

  • Lecturer: Involved in academia, having lectured at several prestigious institutions.

Discussion on George H. W. Bush

Early Relationship with George H. W. Bush

  • Origin: The speaker shares a personal connection through Bucky Bush, George H. W. Bush's younger brother, a classmate from Yale.

  • Meeting at Airport: Their encounter at an airport before Bush's presidential campaign announcement.

  • Interactions During Administration: Worked together when Bush was Vice President and Negroponte was part of the National Security Council; significant interactions during the Vietnam era.

Bush's Diplomacy and Humanity

  • Public Official: Negroponte praises Bush for his credentials, experience, and humanity.

  • Handling Controversy: Noted how Bush managed controversies with grace and dignity, earning the speaker's admiration.

Appointment as Ambassador

  • Presidential Request: Bush's request to remain in Washington vs. Negroponte’s preference to return to fieldwork in Mexico.

  • Significance of Appointments: Bush's intention to send a message about valuing career foreign service officers, thereby promoting professionalism within the service.

Economic Relationship with Mexico

  • Presidency Context: The Bush administration emphasized the importance of a healthy political and economic relationship with Mexico.

  • Spirit of Houston Meeting: Discusses a meeting post-election intended to strengthen US-Mexico relations.

  • Influence of Reagan: Acknowledges Ronald Reagan's understanding of the importance of neighbors in foreign policy.

Formation of NAFTA

  • Initiation: The speaker recounts being approached by Mexican representatives to discuss a free trade agreement.

  • Negotiation Process: Discusses meetings involving prominent figures, including President Bush and Secretary Baker, regarding the trade agreement.

  • Impact of NAFTA: Highlights the substantial positive impact NAFTA had on US-Mexico economic relations, asserting that over $800 billion in trade has developed as a result.

Reflection on Accomplishments

  • Historic Accords: Negroponte asserts that NAFTA was a historically significant achievement in US foreign policy, praised by figures like Henry Kissinger.

  • Professional Admiration: Conveys deep respect and gratitude for President Bush and highlights the importance of his leadership.

Discussion on Foreign Service Career

  • Inspiration: Negroponte’s motivation to join the foreign service stemmed from his father's influence and personal experiences.

  • Career Path: Details his initial assignments across different regions, particularly Vietnam, which solidified his commitment to diplomacy.

  • Skills Development: Describes how his various roles have honed his negotiation skills, particularly regarding environmental and fisheries policy.

Shift Towards Latin America

  • Cultural Attraction: Personal connection to Latin America through language, music, and historical relations.

  • Significance of the Monroe Doctrine: Reflects on its enduring relevance in American foreign policy.

  • Negotiation Experience: Shares valuable experiences negotiating fisheries policies and building relationships within Latin America.

Advice for Students in Foreign Service

  • Resilience and Interest: Encourages students to pursue their interest in foreign affairs despite the current political environment.

  • Importance of Language: Strongly advises students to focus on learning foreign languages, as it opens doors in diplomacy. The speaker acknowledges that proficiency in a foreign language is highly regarded in the foreign service.

Conclusion

  • Gratitude: Concludes with appreciation for the community and the opportunity to engage with students and share experiences. The speaker expresses a commitment to fostering interest in public service careers among students.