Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Contact: Jeanne H. Schmedlen
Director of Special Projects and Chief of Protocol
(717) 705-1894
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 18, 2008
Speaker O'Brien Welcomes Nigerian Delegation to the House of Representatives
HARRISBURG – Calling him an “outstanding global diplomat and friend,” Speaker of the House Dennis O’Brien (R-Philadelphia) today welcomed the Speaker of the House of the Ogun State of Nigeria, the Right Honorable Samson Egbetokun, and 28 other elected Nigerian Assembly Members to the House Chamber.
“Visits like this are valuable in building mutual understanding and friendship,” O’Brien said. “We have so much to learn from one another across the globe and it is by taking the time and energy to plan exchanges like ours today that we truly can be educated about each other.
“One of our greatest allies on the African continent is Nigeria and it is an honor to welcome these diplomats to the State House today. The members of America’s oldest State House today showed its support for one of America’s strongest African allies by receiving our new friends. This visit will foster stronger collaboration and communication between Pennsylvania and Nigeria,” said O’Brien
“These international visits by foreign dignitaries both strengthen our bonds and lay the groundwork of working together for years to come,” he said. “Sharing information and ideas with foreign visitors helps both of our communities to grow and prosper.”
This visit marks the 15th international delegation to visit the Capitol since O’Brien was elected Speaker in January of 2007. Other delegations came from countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Israel, Russia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Denmark and China. In July, O’Brien will host the Army War College 2008-2009 Fellows, all colonels in their respective national military services, who represent 42 different countries from across the globe.
# # #