Francis Ricciardone, the U.S. ambassador to the Philippines and a Middle East expert returned to Washington today to oversee efforts to bring democracy to post-war Iraq.

“Ambassador Ricciardone has been an important and effective partner in ensuring that relations between our countries are mutually beneficial.  I wish him well and hope to see him back in Manila.  I understand that his stint in Washington is still a temporary assignment,” Secretary Albert said.

The Secretary said that she was certain that Ambassador Ricciardone would do a good job as head of a U.S. government team for the transition of Iraq to self-governance and democracy. “He is an acknowledged Middle East expert.  He brings to his new job a wealth of experience in Middle East Affairs, particularly on issues relating to Iraq,” the Secretary added. “He will be playing a central role in establishing a democratic Iraq and we continue to fully support every effort to help the people of Iraq build a vibrant democracy,” she added.

The Secretary also squelched any speculation that Ambassador Ricciardone was being recalled as a result of the Philippine government’s reaction to the action taken by the US Department of Justice against Philippine telecommunication firms and officials.

“There is no truth to this rumor.  Ambassador Ricciardone is uniquely qualified for the job that awaits him in Iraq and is the right man for this very challenging and difficult task.  I know that he will perform admirably.  He has my support,” the Secretary said. The Secretary also said that there is no basis to other rumors that Ambassador Ricciardone’s new assignment is related to Philippine domestic politics. END.