A FAREWELL MESSAGE FROM H.E. MR. BIJAN SABET, AMBASSADOR OF THE USA
H.E. Mr. Bijan Sabet, Ambassador of the United States of America and his spouse Mrs. Lauren Sabet
As my time serving as the United States Ambassador to the Czech Republic comes to an end, I feel deep gratitude, pride, and optimism. Serving in this beautiful country has been the greatest honor of my life. As I prepare to return home, I am confident that the bonds between our two nations have never been stronger.
Over the past few years, Czechia and the United States have shown what is possible when allies unite around shared values and mutual respect. Together, we have stood in support of Ukraine during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. Czechia’s leadership and unwavering support for Ukraine sent a clear message to the world and reaffirmed the strength of our transatlantic alliance. The United States has been proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Czech people every step of the way.
Our defense partnership has soared to new heights, from the Czech acquisition of 24 F-35 aircraft, to the signing of a bilateral Defense Cooperation Agreement. Economic ties are also thriving: trade is up, foreign direct investment is growing, and American and Czech businesses are forging partnerships that are creating jobs, advancing technology, and driving growth on both sides of the Atlantic.
What truly sustains and enriches the U.S.-Czech relationship are the connections between our people. From student and cultural exchanges to business collaborations, these relationships strengthen and renew our bond year after year, decade after decade.
Lauren and I have been fortunate to visit every single region of this incredible country. We have skied in Liberec, biked in western Bohemia, floated in Český Krumlov, picked mushrooms near Ještěd, hiked in the highlands, and explored the beautiful vineyards of Moravia. We have been to Plzeň, České Budějovice, Ústí, and Zlín, and everywhere in-between, sharing stories and making connections that’ll last a lifetime.
I want to say a special thank you to my wonderful wife, Lauren. Lauren has been my rock, my anchor, and my inspiration throughout this journey. I couldn’t do any of this without her, nor would I want to. Next month we celebrate 30 years of marriage!
To our amazing U.S. Embassy team – you’ve shown me every day what public service truly means.
And to everyone here – you’ve given us the memories of a lifetime, and our hearts are full. In closing, we – the Czech and American people – have a remarkable story of collaboration and friendship.
And as we look to the future, I think we can be even more ambitious about what we can achieve together. I have full confidence in the future of U.S.-Czech relations not just to grow, but to thrive!
So this isn’t really farewell. Instead of saying goodbye, let’s just say “na shledanou” – until we meet again.
Thank you!
Bijan Sabet
Ambassador of the USA to the Czech Republic (February 15th, 2023 – January 20th, 2025)